Master the 2025 Canadian Red Cross EMR Exam – Become an Emergency Hero!

The correct sequence of the four stages of labor is essential for understanding the childbirth process. The stages of labor are typically defined as follows:

1. Preparation: This is the initial stage where the body undergoes physical and hormonal changes in preparation for childbirth. It encompasses the onset of contractions and can last for several hours or even days.

2. Delivery of Baby: This is the second stage where the mother pushes, assisted by contractions, to deliver the baby. This stage concludes once the baby is born.

3. Delivery of Placenta: Following the birth of the baby, the third stage involves the expulsion of the placenta. This stage usually occurs within a few minutes to half an hour after the baby is delivered.

4. Stabilization: This final stage includes monitoring the mother and baby after childbirth to ensure both are stable and recovering. It provides time for immediate post-delivery care.

This sequence accurately reflects the typical processes that take place during labor, highlighting the chronological order from preparation through to stabilization after the delivery of the placenta. Understanding these stages is crucial for emergency medical responders as it helps them provide appropriate care and interventions throughout the childbirth process.