La. Admin. Code tit. 48 § I-9553
Active Labor-contractions resulting in progressive effacement and dilation of the cervix.
Alternative Birthing Unit(ABU)-a unit located within a hospital in which delivery is expected following a low risk, normal, and uncomplicated pregnancy. Care and services provided prior to, during, and following childbirth are under the direction of a certified nurse midwife.
Antepartum Care (Prenatal Care)-occurring or existing before birth. The prenatal period (also known as antenatal care) refers to the regular medical and nursing care recommended for women during pregnancy. Prenatal care is a type of preventative care with the goal of providing regular check-ups that allow doctors or certified nurse midwives to treat and prevent potential health problems throughout the course of the pregnancy.
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)-an advanced practice registered nurse as defined in R.S. 37:913, or current law.
Complications-any condition as defined by the medical staff/governing body that contraindicates continued care in the alternative birthing center.
Doula-a nonmedical person, certified by Doula of North America (DONA) who assists a woman before, during or after childbirth, as well as her partner and/or family, by providing information, physical assistance and emotional support.
Family-individuals selected by the pregnant woman to be present and/or in attendance during her admission to the ABU.
Intrapartum-the period beginning with active labor to the expulsion of the placenta.
Licensed Practitioner-for purposes of this Rule refers to a licensed physician and/or a certified nurse midwife.
Low Risk Pregnancy-a normal uncomplicated term pregnancy as determined by a generally accepted course of prenatal care. The expectation of a normal uncomplicated birth as shall be defined by the medical staff/governing body.
Medical Director-a physician licensed to practice medicine by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners (LSBME), who is board certified as an obstetrician and gynecologist (OB/GYN) and credentialed and privileged for the hospital's obstetrical/gynecological services.
Postmature-gestational age of greater than 42 weeks.
Postpartum-the period beginning immediately after childbirth.
Preterm-prior to the thirty-seventh week of gestation.
Term-gestational age of greater or equal to 37 weeks.
La. Admin. Code tit. 48, § I-9553