External Maternal Monitoring Related

Review External Maternal Monitoring related questions and content

A patient in labor begins to experience significant vaginal bleeding. What is the first step the nurse should take?

  • A. Administer oxygen to the patient
  • B. Check for a cord prolapse
  • C. Perform a vaginal examination
  • D. Perform a vaginal examination
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Check for a cord prolapse. This is the first step because cord prolapse is a critical emergency that can lead to fetal compromise. By checking for cord prolapse, the nurse can quickly assess the situation and take appropriate actions to relieve pressure on the cord. Administering oxygen (choice A) may be necessary later but not the first step. Performing a vaginal examination (choices C and D) can exacerbate the situation by pushing the cord further into the birth canal.