Ace the NREMT Paramedic Challenge 2025 – Jumpstart Your Lifesaving Journey!

Question: 1 / 400

What is an indication of shoulder dystocia during delivery?

The fetal head has not yet emerged

The fetal shoulders are wedged against the maternal symphysis pubis

Shoulder dystocia is a delivery complication that occurs when the fetal shoulders become lodged behind the maternal symphysis pubis after the head has emerged. This condition is particularly concerning because it can lead to potential injury for both the infant and the mother if not managed promptly and effectively.

The indication of shoulder dystocia is characterized by the observation that, after the fetal head has rotated and emerged, the shoulders fail to follow through the birth canal, typically becoming impacted against the maternal pelvic bone. This wedging action is what makes option B the correct indication of the condition.

The other options do not accurately represent shoulder dystocia: the fetal head not having emerged is a sign of an obstructed labor rather than dystocia itself. A breech position refers to the baby being positioned to deliver buttocks or feet first, which is a separate issue from shoulder dystocia. Severe abdominal pain may be experienced by mothers during labor due to various reasons, but it is not a specific indicator of shoulder dystocia. Thus, the clear presence of wedged shoulders behind the symphysis pubis is the definitive sign of shoulder dystocia.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

The infant is in a breech position

The mother experiences severe abdominal pain

Next Question

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy