A nurse is caring for a client who is at 41 weeks of gestation and has a positive contraction stress test. For which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse prepare the client?

A. Helping the client to the bathroom to void is not the priority in this situation. The urge to push could indicate that the baby is descending, and the nurse should be prepared for imminent delivery.

B. Observing the perineum for signs of crowning is a valid action, but having the client pant during contractions is more appropriate at this stage. It can help prevent rapid descent and potential trauma if delivery is imminent.

C. Having the client pant during the next contractions is the correct action.

Panting during contractions may slow down the urge to push and prevent rapid delivery, especially if the healthcare provider is not present or the delivery is not imminent.

D. Assisting the client into a comfortable position is important, but the priority is to manage the urge to push. Panting can be an effective technique for delaying pushing until the healthcare provider is ready for the delivery.

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.