Which assessment finding indicates that cervical dilation and/or effacement has occurred?
- A. Onset of irregular contractions
- B. Cephalic presentation at 0 station
- C. Bloody mucus drainage from vagina
- D. Fetal heart tones (FHTs) present in the lower right quadrant
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Bloody mucus drainage from the vagina, also known as "bloody show," is a common sign that indicates cervical dilation and/or effacement has occurred in anticipation of labor. This occurs as the mucus plug, which seals the cervix during pregnancy, is released as the cervix begins to soften, dilate, and efface in preparation for childbirth. This physical change in the cervix is a significant indicator that labor is approaching. The other options listed do not directly indicate cervical changes associated with labor progression like the presence of bloody mucus drainage does.
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Uncontrolled maternal hyperventilation during labor results in
- A. metabolic acidosis.
- B. metabolic alkalosis.
- C. respiratory acidosis.
- D. respiratory alkalosis.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Uncontrolled maternal hyperventilation during labor leads to excessive elimination of carbon dioxide, causing a decrease in the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2). This results in respiratory alkalosis, as the pH of the blood increases due to a decrease in PaCO2. Metabolic acidosis (Option A) would be associated with conditions such as lactic acidosis, while metabolic alkalosis (Option B) would involve excessive loss of acid or gain of base, but in this case, the primary effect is on the respiratory system. Respiratory acidosis (Option C) would be characterized by an increase in PaCO2 leading to a decrease in pH, which is the opposite of what occurs in maternal hyperventilation.
A patient admitted to the labor unit asks the nurse to discuss the episiotomy procedure with her. Which is true regarding episiotomy?
- A. An episiotomy is required for all vaginal births.
- B. A midline episiotomy is associated with more third- and fourth-degree lacerations.
- C. A mediolateral episiotomy is easier to repair than a medial episiotomy.
- D. A midline episiotomy is associated with more blood loss.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A midline episiotomy is not required for all vaginal births, but it is associated with more third- and fourth-degree lacerations.
How can a nurse support the patient during the fourth stage of labor?
- A. Support pushing efforts with feedback on how much progress is being made
- B. Ensure epidural anesthesia is adequate for pain control, reposition frequently, provide dietary intake per provider's order.
- C. Assess for any bleeding or amniotic fluid presence in the vaginal discharge
- D. Provide rest, space, and time for bonding between assessments, support for feeding
preferences, diligent monitoring for complications, pain management.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: During the fourth stage of labor, it is important for the nurse to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for the mother and baby. This stage occurs immediately after the baby is born and lasts for about 2 hours. The mother may be exhausted from the physical effort of labor and delivery, so providing rest, space, and time for bonding between assessments is crucial. The nurse should also support the mother's feeding preferences, whether it is breastfeeding or formula feeding. Diligent monitoring for complications, such as postpartum hemorrhage or infection, is essential during this stage. Additionally, providing adequate pain management for any discomfort the mother may be experiencing is important.
The health care provider for a laboring patient makes the following entry into the patient’s record: 3/50%/+1. What instruction will the nurse implement with the patient?
- A. "You will need to remain in bed attached to the electronic fetal monitor.”
- B. "Breathe with me slowly, in through your nose and out through your mouth.”
- C. "I will begin the administration of 1000 mL of IV fluid so you can have an epidural.”
- D. "Your partner will need to change into scrub attire to attend the imminent birth.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The notation "3/50%/+" in the patient's record indicates that the patient is dilated 3 cm, the effacement is 50%, and the presenting part of the fetus is at +1 station. This information signifies that the patient is in active labor. The nurse should implement the instruction of having the patient remain in bed attached to the electronic fetal monitor to closely monitor the progression of labor and the well-being of the fetus. This will allow for continuous assessment and prompt interventions as needed.
A 24-year-old G4 T1 A2 L1 presents to obstetric triage with complaints of contractions every 3 minutes, accompanied by bright red vaginal bleeding. The woman is 29 weeks gestation with a twin pregnancy. She has had three urinary tract infections during this pregnancy and is currently taking Microbid daily as prophylaxis. Her last baby was born via cesarean section for breech malpresentation. She denies any other significant medical history. What risk factors for placenta previa does this patient have? Select all that apply.
- A. Maternal age of 24
- B. Twin gestation
- C. Gestational age of 29 weeks
- D. Previous delivery by cesarean section
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The patient's age, history of cesarean section, and twin gestation all contribute to an increased risk of placenta previa. The most significant risk factor here is the previous cesarean section, which can cause scarring and increase the likelihood of abnormal placental implantation.