Nurses who are new to the fast-paced and interdisciplinary labor and delivery (L&D) environment will welcome this newly updated, succinct, easy-to-use orientation guide for everyday labor and birth management practices. It is designed for speedy access to fundamental information about the most common L&D procedures and encourages the development of independence and confidence for new RNs orienting to this practice environment. The third edition has been completely updated to reflect the newest evidence-based practice guidelines from The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine.Chapters cover the more commonly occurring L&D situations and introduce unfamiliar terminology, equipment, labs, medications, and algorithms. Important topics in each section are alphabetized for ease of reference, and many clear illustrations aid learning. This new edition contains new content on aromatherapy, nitrous oxide, and skin-to-skin contact, and updated and expanded information on breastfeeding, labor progression, amniotic fluid embolism, and prematurity. New to the Third Edition: New content on aromatherapy, nitrous oxide, and skin-to-skin contact New appendices include clinical charts and an alphabetical synopsis of drug-related information with L&D implications New illustrations for labor and delivery protocol Key Features: Reflects the newest evidence-based practice guidelines from ACOG and SMFM Incorporates interventions/management tips Provides speedy access to fundamental L&D information Presents succinct, step-by-step descriptions of commonly occurring procedures