With regard to a woman's intake and output during labor, nurses should be aware that:

With regard to a woman's intake and output during labor, nurses should be aware that:
 
  a. The tradition of restricting the laboring woman to clear liquids and ice chips is being challenged because regional anesthesia is used more often than general anesthesia.
  b. Intravenous (IV) fluids usually are necessary to ensure that the laboring woman stays hydrated.
  c. Routine use of an enema empties the rectum and is very helpful for producing a clean, clear delivery.
  d. When a nulliparous woman experiences the urge to defecate, it often means birth will follow quickly.