Maternal Monitoring During Labor ppt Related

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A patient who is 38 weeks pregnant presents to the labor and delivery unit. Upon vaginal examination, it is determined the fetus is engaged. What is the correct interpretation by the nurse?

  • A. The cervix is completely effaced.
  • B. The lie is longitudinal.
  • C. The fetal head is flexed.
  • D. The biparietal diameter of the fetal head is at the level of the ischial spines.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct interpretation by the nurse is D: The biparietal diameter of the fetal head is at the level of the ischial spines. At 38 weeks, engagement indicates the fetal head has descended into the pelvis and reached the level of the ischial spines. This is a crucial landmark in labor progress, indicating descent and readiness for birth. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A refers to cervical effacement, which is not related to engagement. Choice B refers to fetal lie, which describes the relationship of the fetal spine to the maternal spine. Choice C refers to fetal head flexion, which is important for the mechanism of labor but not specifically related to engagement.