Atrium Health Womens Care Maternal Fetal Monitoring Related

Review Atrium Health Womens Care Maternal Fetal Monitoring related questions and content

During the fourth stage of labor, a nurse assesses the perineum of a birthing person who had a vaginal birth. What is the primary purpose of this assessment?

  • A. to evaluate the birthing person's readiness for discharge
  • B. to ensure the birthing person can ambulate safely
  • C. to detect any signs of perineal trauma
  • D. to assess the status of cervical dilation
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of assessing the perineum during the fourth stage of labor is to detect any signs of perineal trauma. This assessment is crucial to identify any tears or lacerations that may require immediate medical attention. By checking for perineal trauma, the nurse can ensure proper healing and prevent complications postpartum.

Summary:
A: Evaluating readiness for discharge is not the primary purpose of perineal assessment during the fourth stage of labor.
B: Ensuring safe ambulation is important but not the primary reason for assessing the perineum.
D: Assessing cervical dilation is not relevant during the fourth stage of labor where the focus shifts to monitoring postpartum recovery.