North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Which of the following characteristics is noted for maternal pulse during contractions?

1. Increased during increment and decreased during acme

2. Stable and unchanged

3. Decreased throughout the labor

4. Increased during rest periods

The correct answer is: Increased during increment and decreased during acme

The selected answer indicates that the maternal pulse increases during the increment phase of a contraction and decreases during acme. This is aligned with the physiological response of a woman's body during labor. As contractions occur, several changes take place in the body. The increment phase marks the buildup of a contraction, which typically involves increased uterine activity and can lead to a rise in maternal heart rate. This is a response to both the physical exertion involved in labor and the stress response activated by the body's efforts to manage pain and pressure. During the acme, which represents the peak of the contraction, the body may undergo a temporary decrease in maternal heart rate due to reflex responses related to the increased tension and possible vasoconstriction in the uterine muscles. This dynamic shift in maternal pulse helps to reflect the stress and physiological changes occurring as the body works through the labor process. Understanding this characteristic of maternal pulse is crucial for midwives and healthcare providers, as it helps monitor the woman's physiological status through labor, ensuring both the mother and baby are safe throughout the process.