What term describes the external rotation occurring after the delivery of the head during birth?

The correct term that describes the external rotation occurring after the delivery of the head during birth is restitution. This process follows the delivery of the fetal head as it quickly rotates to align with the fetal body, allowing the shoulders to navigate through the pelvis more efficiently. Restitution occurs due to the release of the torque that was present during labor and helps the baby to align its body with the position of the head, facilitating a smoother delivery of the shoulders and the rest of the body.

Understanding this term is crucial as it plays a vital role in the mechanics of labor and delivery, and recognizing it helps nurses and healthcare professionals identify the different stages of birth more clearly. It highlights the dynamic changes that occur in fetal positioning and the importance of these movements in ensuring a safe delivery.