ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Latest Update Related

Review ATI Maternal Newborn Proctored Exam Latest Update related questions and content

A client who is 37 weeks gestation comes to the office for a routine visit. This is the client's first baby and she asks the nurse how she will know when labor begins. Which signs indicate that true labor has begun?

  • A. Contractions that are irregular and decrease in intensity when walking
  • B. Abdominal pain that starts at the fundus and progresses to the lower back
  • C. Increased pressure on the bladder and urinary frequency
  • D. Expulsion of pink-tinged mucous and contractions that start in the lower back
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the expulsion of pink-tinged mucous (bloody show) and contractions starting in the lower back are indicative of true labor. This is due to the release of the mucus plug and the initiation of true uterine contractions. Contractions that start in the lower back and progress to the front are characteristic of true labor.

Choice A is incorrect because contractions that are irregular and decrease in intensity with walking are characteristic of false labor (Braxton Hicks contractions).

Choice B is incorrect as abdominal pain starting at the fundus and progressing to the lower back is not a specific sign of true labor.

Choice C is incorrect as increased pressure on the bladder and urinary frequency are common throughout pregnancy and not specific to the onset of true labor.

In summary, the correct answer D provides specific and characteristic signs of true labor, while the other choices do not accurately reflect the onset of true labor.