NCLEX RN Practice Questions Maternity Related

Review NCLEX RN Practice Questions Maternity related questions and content

A 39-year-old multigravid client at 39 weeks' gestation admitted to the hospital in active labor has been diagnosed with class II heart disease. To ensure cardiac emptying and adequate oxygenation during labor, the nurse plans to encourage the client to do which of the following?

  • A. Breathe slowly after each contraction.
  • B. Avoid the use of analgesics for the labor pain.
  • C. Remain in a side-lying position with the head elevated.
  • D. Request local anesthesia for vaginal delivery.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: For class II heart disease, a side-lying position with head elevation reduces cardiac strain by optimizing venous return and oxygenation. Slow breathing is helpful but less specific, avoiding analgesics may increase stress, and local anesthesia is unrelated to cardiac emptying.