Maternal Monitoring Related

Review Maternal Monitoring related questions and content

A patient in labor is requesting pain relief. What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient in the latent phase of labor?

  • A. Administer an epidural block
  • B. Provide non-pharmacological pain relief methods
  • C. Administer narcotic analgesics
  • D. Encourage the patient to push with each contraction
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide non-pharmacological pain relief methods. In the latent phase of labor, the cervix is dilated up to 6 cm and the contractions are typically mild to moderate. Non-pharmacological methods like massage, breathing techniques, warm showers, and position changes are most appropriate as they help the patient relax and cope with the pain without interfering with the progress of labor. Administering an epidural block (A) is not recommended in the latent phase as it can slow down labor. Administering narcotic analgesics (C) can affect the baby and may not provide adequate pain relief. Encouraging the patient to push (D) is not appropriate in the latent phase as it can lead to exhaustion and may not be effective until the cervix is fully dilated.