Maternal Monitoring During Labor Related

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A nurse is assessing a laboring person's progress. What is the most reliable indicator that the laboring person is in the active phase of labor?

  • A. Progressive cervical dilation
  • B. Frequent, regular contractions
  • C. Fetal descent
  • D. Effacement of the cervix
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Progressive cervical dilation. This is the most reliable indicator of the active phase of labor because it directly reflects the opening of the cervix, indicating that labor is advancing. Cervical dilation is a key aspect of labor progress and is used to determine the stage of labor. Frequent, regular contractions (choice B) are important but can occur in early labor as well. Fetal descent (choice C) is an important aspect but may happen in conjunction with cervical dilation. Effacement of the cervix (choice D) is also important but does not solely indicate the active phase of labor.