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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.