Maternal Monitoring Related

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A nurse is caring for a laboring person who is in the first stage of labor. What is the most important assessment to perform during this stage?

  • A. assess fetal heart rate
  • B. monitor contractions
  • C. check blood pressure
  • D. assist with breathing exercises
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: assess fetal heart rate. During the first stage of labor, monitoring the fetal heart rate is crucial as it indicates the well-being of the baby. Changes in fetal heart rate can signal distress and prompt intervention. Monitoring contractions is important but assessing fetal well-being takes precedence. Checking blood pressure is important but not the most critical in this stage. Assisting with breathing exercises can help manage pain, but assessing fetal heart rate is more crucial for ensuring the baby's safety.