North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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What is the term used to describe when the widest diameter of the fetal presenting part has passed through the pelvic inlet?

Descent
Engagement
Flexion
Internal rotation

The correct answer is: Engagement

The term that describes when the widest diameter of the fetal presenting part has passed through the pelvic inlet is "engagement." Engagement marks a significant stage in labor, indicating that the fetal head (or presenting part) has moved into the pelvic cavity, specifically the pelvic inlet. This process is crucial as it allows for the proper alignment and orientation of the fetus for birth. Engagement typically occurs after descent, where the fetus moves down into the pelvic canal. However, engagement is specifically defined by the point at which the presenting part's widest diameter aligns with the pelvic inlet, signifying that the baby is starting to fit into the pelvic passage. Understanding this term is vital for midwives and practitioners monitoring the labor process, as it helps assess progress and determine the best positions and interventions for delivery. Other terms like flexion and internal rotation relate to the changes in the fetal position during labor but do not specifically refer to the passage of the widest diameter through the pelvic inlet, making "engagement" the accurate term for this stage of labor.