Effect of an Ergonomic Ankle Support for Squatting Position on Labor progress and maternal outcome

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 lecturer of Obstetrics and Gynecologic Nursing Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University.

2 lecturers of Obstetrics and Gynecologic Nursing Faculty of Nursing, Damanhour University.

3 Assistance professor of Obstetrics and Gynecologic Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Alexandria University. Egypt

Abstract

Introduction: Postural changes can be one of the simplest ways of promoting labor, as women can
use them while remaining in bed, if medically indicated. Aim of the study to evaluate, the effect of
an ergonomic ankle support for squatting position on progress of labor and maternal outcome
among primiparae women. Design: A quasi-experimental research design was utilized. Subjects: A
convenience study subject of (80) women were selected from EL-Shatby Maternity University
Hospital. Tools: four tools were used by the researchers to collect the necessary data: Tool I: basic
data structured interview schedule, Tool II: Partograph, Tool III: Maternal Outcome Observational
Checklist and Tool IV: Cardiotocography (CTG). Results: There was highly a statistically
significant differences between both groups (P=0.000) from the 1st to the 6th hour in relation to
frequency, duration and intensity of uterine contraction. Mean cervical effacement demonstrated
highly statistically significant difference (P=0.000) among the study and the control groups from the
1st to the 6th hours. Furthermore, highly a statistically significant difference was found between the
study subjects' mean duration of the 1st stage of labor (P<0.000). Conclusion: it can be concluded
that assuming squatting position with ergonomic ankle support for during the active phase of labor
was more effective in accelerating progress of labor among the study group in terms of: stronger
uterine contractions, faster cervical dilatation and effacement, faster fetal head descent and shorter
duration of the three stages of labor. Recommendations: Squatting Position with ergonomic ankle
support position should be advocated as one of the significant modalities to manage labor pains,
Upright positions, especially Squatting Position with ergonomic ankle support position, during the
first stage of labor need to be incorporated into antenatal care activities and Laboring women should
be encouraged to assume upright (Squatting Position with ergonomic ankle support) position during
the first stage of labor to control pain, facilitate labor as well as to promote self-control and attain
more satisfactory birthing experience.

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