During delivery of the posterior arm, what should the nurse ensure regarding suprapubic pressure?

During the delivery of the posterior arm in a case of shoulder dystocia, it is crucial for the nurse to stop applying suprapubic pressure while the provider performs the maneuver. This is because the application of suprapubic pressure is intended to dislodge the impacted shoulder, and any additional pressure during the provider's maneuver could complicate the issue further or impede the delivery process. Stopping the suprapubic pressure allows the provider to assess and manipulate the fetal position effectively without resistance or obstruction, thereby enhancing the chances of a successful delivery.

Ensuring that the pressure is not applied is vital for patient safety. It allows the healthcare team to concentrate on techniques that can effectively resolve the dystocia, like the McRoberts maneuver, which involves flexing the mother's legs tightly to her abdomen to widen the pelvic angle.