A nurse is assessing a client at their first prenatal appointment. The client reports that the first day of their last menstrual period was September 17. Which of the following accurately represents the client's estimated date of birth using Naegele's Rule?

A) Flexion:
Flexion is a movement where the fetal head bends forward during labor, which allows the smallest diameter of the head to pass through the birth canal. It is an important part of the labor process but does not refer to the initial descent of the fetus into the pelvis. Flexion typically occurs once the fetus begins to descend into the pelvis.

B) Engagement:
Engagement refers to the initial descent of the fetal head into the pelvis and the passage of the largest part of the fetal head (the biparietal diameter) into the maternal pelvis. This occurs when the fetal head reaches zero station at the level of the ischial spines and is the first cardinal movement of labor. It marks the point at which the presenting part of the fetus enters the pelvic inlet and begins the process of descent.

C) Extension:
Extension is the movement of the fetal head as it exits the birth canal after engagement and descent. The head moves from a flexed position (chin to chest) to an extended position (chin moving away from the chest) as it passes through the birth canal. This movement occurs after engagement and is a part of the expulsion phase, not the initial descent.

D) Expulsion:
Expulsion is the final phase of labor, which occurs after the fetal head has been delivered. It involves the delivery of the rest of the body (shoulders, torso, and legs) following the birth of the head. This is the final cardinal movement, which takes place after engagement, descent, flexion, internal rotation, extension, and external rotation.

A) Fetal heart monitoring:
Nurses are trained to monitor fetal heart rates, interpret patterns, and identify signs of distress, but this task is typically within the scope of a registered nurse's (RN) practice. It may not involve the critical decision-making or advanced skills associated with the highest level of licensure.

B) Taking specimens to the lab:
Taking specimens to the laboratory is a necessary but routine part of care. While it is important for ensuring proper diagnostic testing, it is a lower-level task and does not demonstrate the highest level of nursing practice. This task is often delegated or performed as part of standard nursing duties.

C) Performing vaginal delivery:
Performing a vaginal delivery is a high-level skill that typically requires advanced education, certification, and licensure beyond that of a registered nurse. This is usually performed by a midwife, obstetrician, or other healthcare providers with advanced training and certification. In many settings, a registered nurse may assist with vaginal deliveries but cannot independently perform them unless they have additional certifications (such as Certified Nurse Midwife).

D) Giving a client a bed bath:
While important for patient care and comfort, giving a client a bed bath is a basic nursing task that does not demonstrate working at the highest level of licensure. It is a fundamental nursing activity often carried out by nurses, nursing assistants, or other support staff. The act of providing a bed bath is part of the foundational skill set and does not require advanced knowledge or decision-making that would demonstrate the highest level of practice.