Maternal Monitoring Related

Review Maternal Monitoring related questions and content

What is the primary purpose of a vaginal examination during the second stage of labor?

  • A. to assess fetal descent
  • B. to evaluate uterine progress
  • C. to assess cervical dilation
  • D. to assess fetal position
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because during the second stage of labor, the primary purpose of a vaginal examination is to evaluate uterine progress. This is important to determine the effectiveness of contractions and the progression of labor. Assessing fetal descent (A) is typically done during the first stage of labor. Assessing cervical dilation (C) is important throughout labor but is not the primary purpose during the second stage. Assessing fetal position (D) can also be important but is not the primary focus during the second stage.