A nurse in the labor and delivery unit is attending to a client in labor. The nurse applies an external fetal monitor and toco transducer.

The FHR is around 140/min.

Contractions are every 8 min and 30 to 40 seconds in duration.

The nurse performs a vaginal exam and finds the cervix is 2 cm dilated, 50% effaced, and the fetus is at a -2 station.

Which stage and phase of labor is this client experiencing?

Choice C rationale
The apex of the heart is the most appropriate site to assess an infant’s heart rate. In infants, the apical pulse provides the most accurate assessment of heart rate. The apical pulse is located at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line.
Choice A rationale
The carotid artery is not typically used to assess an infant’s heart rate. This site is more commonly used in adults and older children.
Choice B rationale
The brachial artery can be used to assess an infant’s heart rate, but it is typically used for blood pressure measurements rather than heart rate assessments.
Choice D rationale
The radial artery is not typically used to assess an infant’s heart rate. This site is more commonly used in adults and older children.

Choice A rationale
Positioning the infant supine is not the most appropriate intervention for an infant diagnosed with spina bifida who is scheduled for a surgical closure of the myelomeningocele sac. This position could put pressure on the sac and potentially lead to rupture or infection.
Choice B rationale
While contact precautions can be important in certain situations to prevent the spread of infection, they are not the primary intervention for a child with spina bifida undergoing surgery. The main concern is protecting the myelomeningocele sac from damage and infection.
Choice C rationale
Ensuring a latex-free environment is crucial for a child with spina bifida. Many children with spina bifida have a latex allergy, and exposure to latex can cause an allergic reaction. This can range from skin redness and itching to more serious symptoms such as wheezing and difficulty breathing.
Choice D rationale
Restricting visitors to immediate family members is not specifically related to the care of an infant with spina bifida. While limiting visitors can help reduce the risk of infection, it is not the primary concern in this case.