A nurse in labor and delivery is caring for a client. Following delivery of the placenta, the nurse examines the umbilical cord. Which of the following vessels should the nurse expect to observe in the umbilical cord?

The correct answer is A. Slow-paced breathing

A. Slow-paced breathing is a nonpharmacological comfort measure that involves taking slow, deep breaths to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It can be an effective technique for managing pain during contractions.

B. Biofeedback involves the use of electronic monitoring to provide feedback about physiological processes, and it is not typically used as a primary nonpharmacological comfort measure for labor pain.

C. Self-hypnosis is a relaxation technique that involves guided imagery and focused concentration to promote relaxation and reduce pain. However, it may require some previous knowledge or practice, and in the context of this scenario, slow-paced breathing may be a more immediate and accessible option.

D. Acupuncture involves the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow. While acupuncture can be effective for pain management, it may not be readily available in all labor settings, and slow-paced breathing is a more universally applicable option.

The correct instruction is C. "Check the temperature of your baby's bath water with your hand."

Explanation:

A. "You can share your room with your baby for the next few weeks": This is a recommended practice. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing for at least the first six months and ideally for the first year of a baby's life. It promotes safe sleep and reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

B. "Cover your baby with a light blanket while sleeping": This instruction is not recommended. The AAP advises against using loose bedding, including blankets, in the sleep environment to reduce the risk of SIDS. It is safer to use sleep sacks or wearable blankets if additional warmth is needed.

C. "Check the temperature of your baby's bath water with your hand": This is the correct instruction. It is essential to ensure that the bathwater is not too hot to prevent burns. Checking with the hand is a practical way to assess the water temperature before placing the baby in the bath.

D. "Your baby can nap in the car seat during the daytime": While napping in a car seat during travel is acceptable, it is not recommended for routine or prolonged sleep. The upright position in a car seat may compromise the baby's airway, increasing the risk of breathing difficulties. It's advised to transfer the baby to a flat, firm sleep surface for regular naps.