Nokea
The nurse who elects to practice in the area of obstetrics often hears discussion regarding the four Ps. What are the four Ps that interact during childbirth? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Powers
- B. Passage
- C. Position
- D. Passenger
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Powers. The four Ps of childbirth are Powers, Passage, Passenger, and Psyche. Powers refer to the contractions of the uterus and the pushing efforts of the mother during labor. Passage involves the birth canal through which the baby passes. Passenger refers to the fetus and its position during labor. Psyche relates to the psychological aspects of labor. In this case, Powers directly interact during childbirth by facilitating the progress of labor. Passage, Position, and Passenger are important factors as well, but they do not directly interact during childbirth like Powers do.
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A primigravida has just been examined. The examination revealed engagement of the fetal head. The nurse is aware that this means which of the following?
- A. The biparietal diameter of the fetal head is at the level of the ischial spines.
- B. The biparietal diameter of the fetal head is at –2 station.
- C. The fetal head is well flexed.
- D. The fetal head is unable to pass under the pubic arch.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because engagement of the fetal head means the widest part of the head (biparietal diameter) is at the level of the ischial spines, indicating the head has descended into the pelvis. Choice B is incorrect as -2 station refers to the presenting part being 2 cm above the ischial spines, not at the level. Choice C is incorrect because engagement does not necessarily mean the head is well flexed. Choice D is incorrect as the ability of the head to pass under the pubic arch is not determined solely by engagement.
When does the second stage of labor begin?
- A. at birth
- B. when the early phase ends
- C. when the cervix is completely dilated and effaced
- D. when pushing begins
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the second stage of labor begins when the mother starts pushing to deliver the baby. This stage involves the actual delivery of the baby and ends with the birth. The other choices are incorrect because:
A: Labor begins before the second stage.
B: The early phase is part of the first stage of labor.
C: Full dilation and effacement mark the transition between the first and second stages but pushing is when the second stage actually begins.
What is a direct influence on cervical dilation? Select all that apply.
- A. positioning of the pregnant person
- B. strength of uterine contractions
- C. length of time since ROM
- D. fetal presentation
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: positioning of the pregnant person. The position of the pregnant person can directly influence cervical dilation by affecting the alignment of the uterus and baby, allowing for optimal pressure on the cervix. Proper positioning can facilitate the descent of the baby's head onto the cervix, promoting dilation.
Summary of why other choices are incorrect:
B: The strength of uterine contractions indirectly influences cervical dilation by aiding in the effacement and descent of the baby, but it does not directly impact dilation.
C: The length of time since ROM (rupture of membranes) can affect the risk of infection but does not directly influence cervical dilation.
D: Fetal presentation refers to the position of the baby in the uterus and can affect labor progress, but it does not directly impact cervical dilation.
A 29-year-old gravida 1, para 0 woman who is 35 weeks pregnant is admitted to the labor and delivery unit. She states that there is fluid leaking from her vagina but she is not sure if it is urine. What should the nurse do to make the determination?
- A. A nitrazine test is the most conclusive test.
- B. Nitrazine paper changes from yellow to dark blue due to the acidic nature of amniotic fluid.
- C. Ferning is more conclusive than nitrazine paper testing.
- D. Note if there is fluid leaking from the perineal area.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: A nitrazine test is the most conclusive test. The rationale for this is as follows:
1. Nitrazine test detects the pH level of the fluid. Amniotic fluid is alkaline while urine is acidic.
2. Amniotic fluid will turn the nitrazine paper blue, indicating a pH level greater than 6.5, while urine will not change the color significantly.
3. This test is reliable and can help differentiate between amniotic fluid and urine leakage.
Summary of other choices:
B: Although nitrazine paper changes color due to the acidic nature of amniotic fluid, it is not a comprehensive test on its own.
C: Ferning test is not commonly used in practice and may not be as reliable as the nitrazine test.
D: Noting if fluid is leaking from the perineal area does not provide a conclusive determination of whether it is amniotic fluid or urine.
Which of the following is a function of a doula during labor?
- A. Administration of oral pain medications
- B. Assess fetal heart rate
- C. Perform vaginal examination with the mother’s permission
- D. Provide nonpharmacological pain relief
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Provide nonpharmacological pain relief. A doula's role is to offer emotional support, comfort measures, and advocacy during labor. Providing nonpharmacological pain relief techniques such as massage, breathing exercises, and positioning is within the scope of a doula's practice. This helps the mother cope with labor discomfort without the use of medication.
Choice A is incorrect because doulas do not administer medications. Choice B is incorrect as assessing fetal heart rate is typically done by healthcare providers. Choice C is incorrect as performing vaginal examinations is not a part of a doula's role.