Aim: To evaluate nursing care measures offered to women in labor before delivery in the model maternity unit of Macca university, according to the dictates of care quality indicators proposed by the Ministry of Health. Method: Cross-sectional study, descriptive and quantitative approach, participant observation method. Results: There were no restrictions on fluids, or permanence of a companion; non-pharmacological methods were stimulated; the absence of the use of the partograph was noteworthy (A); enemas, intestinal cleansers and shaving were eliminated from the routine procedures (B); some pain relief technologies without sufficient evidence for their indication were not used (C); frequent vaginal examination, cardiotocography and oxytocic’s administration occurred in more than 30% of cases, according to each conduct. Conclusion: excellence in care provision in delivery requires reflection of the parts involved, as well as implementation and consolidation of existing public policies to ensure comprehensive and humane care measures.