For a multipara, protracted labor is diagnosed when descent of the presenting part is less than?

Protracted labor in a multipara is classified based on the rate of cervical dilation or the descent of the presenting part of the fetus. Specifically, protracted labor is identified when the descent of the presenting part is less than 2 cm per hour.

In the context of labor for multiparous women, normal progress is expected to be at a certain rate. A descent of less than 2 cm per hour indicates that the labor is not progressing as it should, which can be a sign of potential complications. This differentiation is important because prolonged or protracted labor may lead to increased risk for both the mother and the fetus, and proper management strategies may need to be employed to facilitate a safer delivery.

Understanding the parameters for diagnosing protracted labor helps nurses and healthcare providers monitor labor progress effectively and intervene when necessary to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the newborn.