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A patient who is 8 cm dilated develops circumoral numbness and dizziness. What is the nurse’s priority intervention?
- A. Call the health care provider immediately.
- B. Increase intravenous fluid, as these are signs of hypovolemia.
- C. Have the patient slow down her breathing.
- D. Have her start pushing, as these are signs of the beginning of the second stage.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Have the patient slow down her breathing. When a patient is 8 cm dilated and experiences circumoral numbness and dizziness, these are signs of hyperventilation caused by rapid breathing. Hyperventilation can lead to respiratory alkalosis, which can have serious implications for both the mother and baby. By having the patient slow down her breathing, it can help restore the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, reducing the risk of complications. Calling the healthcare provider immediately (choice A) may cause delay in addressing the immediate issue. Increasing intravenous fluid (choice B) is not indicated as the symptoms are not suggestive of hypovolemia. Having her start pushing (choice D) is not advisable as she is not fully dilated, and pushing prematurely can lead to complications.
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What anticipatory guidance should the nurse provide for new parents regarding sociologic changes?
- A. Explain that roles will not change at home
- B. Explain that stresses will be over now that the newborn is born.
- C. Tell the parents not to stress over household changes.
- D. Prepare them for possible strains on relationships.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it addresses the potential strains on relationships that can occur after the birth of a child. New parents often experience changes in their relationship dynamics due to increased responsibilities, sleep deprivation, and shifts in priorities. By preparing them for these possible strains, the nurse can help them navigate these challenges effectively.
A is incorrect because roles often do change at home with the arrival of a newborn. B is incorrect as stresses can actually increase after the baby is born. C is incorrect as it dismisses the importance of addressing household changes and potential stressors.
The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a person who was evaluated for possible labor. How does the nurse explain how losing the mucus plug could be a sign of impending labor?
- A. The mucus plug starts to be expelled due to increased estrogen before contractions begin.
- B. The mucus plug is expelled after the membranes rupture during labor.
- C. Effacement and dilation of the cervix decrease the area where the mucus plug sits.
- D. Labor is unable to begin until the mucus plug is expelled and creates a space for the fetus.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale:
1. Increased estrogen levels lead to softening of the cervix, causing the mucus plug to be expelled.
2. Contractions usually start after the mucus plug is expelled, not before.
3. The mucus plug is typically expelled before the membranes rupture.
4. Effacement and dilation of the cervix prepare the body for labor but are not directly related to the expulsion of the mucus plug.
In summary, Choice A is correct as increased estrogen leads to the expulsion of the mucus plug, indicating impending labor. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately explain the relationship between the mucus plug and impending labor.
When does the active phase of labor begin according to ACOG?
- A. 6 cm
- B. 3 cm
- C. 5 cm
- D. 10 cm
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The active phase of labor according to ACOG begins at 6 cm dilation. At this point, contractions become stronger and more frequent, leading to faster cervical dilation. This stage signifies significant progress towards delivery. Choice B (3 cm) is incorrect as it falls within the early phase of labor. Choice C (5 cm) is also incorrect as it is near the beginning of the active phase but not the specific transition point. Choice D (10 cm) is incorrect as it marks full dilation and the transition to the second stage of labor.
A 28-year-old woman without risk factors has now reached the second stage of labor. What is the optimal position for her at this point?
- A. Supine
- B. Lateral recumbent
- C. Lithotomy
- D. Squatting
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The optimal position for a woman in the second stage of labor is lateral recumbent. This position allows gravity to aid in the descent of the baby, reduces pressure on the vena cava, and promotes better blood flow to the uterus. It also helps prevent perineal tears and facilitates fetal rotation.
A: Supine position can compress the vena cava, reducing blood flow to the uterus.
C: Lithotomy position is not recommended as it can lead to increased perineal trauma.
D: Squatting may not be ideal as it can be tiring for the mother and may not provide optimal support for delivery.
Which woman is the best candidate for a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC)?
- A. A 34-year-old gravida 2, para 1 with one previous classical cesarean section for prematurity
- B. A 21-year-old gravida 2, para 1 with one previous low-transverse cesarean section for CPD
- C. A 31-year-old gravida 4, para 2 with one previous low-transverse cesarean section for late decelerations
- D. A 27-year-old gravida 3, para 2 with one previous T-shaped incision for macrosomia
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale for Choice B (Correct Answer):
- A 21-year-old gravida 2, para 1 with one previous low-transverse cesarean section for CPD is the best candidate for TOLAC.
- Low-transverse incisions have the lowest risk of uterine rupture during labor.
- CPD is not a contraindication for TOLAC.
- Young age and low parity are favorable factors for successful TOLAC.
- Therefore, this candidate has the highest likelihood of a successful VBAC.
Summary for Other Choices:
- Choice A: Classical cesarean section carries a high risk of uterine rupture; prematurity increases this risk.
- Choice C: Low-transverse incision is favorable, but the indication for the previous cesarean (late decelerations) may indicate an ongoing fetal concern.
- Choice D: T-shaped incision increases the risk of uterine rupture; macrosomia is a risk factor for failed TOL