A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and reports increasing rectal pressure. She is experiencing contractions 2 to 3 min apart, each lasting 80 to 90 seconds, and a vaginal examination reveals that her cervix is dilated to 9 cm. The nurse should identify that the client is in which of the following phases of labor?
Active
Transition
Latent
Descent
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
Active is incorrect. The active phase of labor typically begins when the cervix is around 4 to 6 centimeters dilated. Given that the client's cervix is already dilated to 9 cm, she has progressed beyond the active phase.
Choice B Reason:
Transition is correct. The transition phase is the final part of the first stage of labor and occurs when the cervix is dilated from 8 to 10 centimeters. In this phase, contractions are typically strong, occurring every 2 to 3 minutes, and lasting 80 to 90 seconds. The sensation of increasing rectal pressure is common during the transition phase as the baby's head descends further into the birth canal. The advanced cervical dilation to 9 cm also indicates that the client is in the transition phase, preparing for the second stage of labor.
Choice C Reason:
Latent is incorrect. The latent phase is the early part of the first stage of labor, characterized by cervical dilation from 0 to 3 or 4 centimeters. The client's cervix is already dilated to 9 cm, indicating that she has progressed well beyond the latent phase.
Choice D Reason:
Descent is incorrect. The descent phase is generally associated with the second stage of labor, during which the baby moves through the birth canal. The information provided primarily relates to the first stage of labor, specifically the transition phase, as indicated by the cervical dilation of 9 cm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["{"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A"}}"]
Explanation
A. Apply oxygen at 10 L/min via venturi mask:
Anticipated: Applying oxygen is an appropriate action, especially during labor, to ensure adequate oxygenation for both the mother and the fetus.
B. Increase the oxytocin infusion to 13 mu/min:
Anticipated: Adjusting the oxytocin infusion rate may be considered based on the progress of labor and the response to the current infusion rate. This action is anticipated but should be done cautiously and in accordance with established protocols.
C. Initiate a bolus of primary IV fluids:
Anticipated: Initiating a bolus of primary IV fluids is appropriate, especially if there are signs of dehydration or if additional hydration is needed during labor.
D. Perform a sterile vaginal examination (SVE):
Anticipated: Performing a sterile vaginal examination is appropriate to assess cervical dilation, effacement, and station. This information helps in monitoring the progress of labor and making decisions about interventions.
E. Place the client in a side-lying position:
Anticipated: Placing the client in a side-lying position is an appropriate action. This position can enhance fetal oxygenation and blood flow, especially if there are concerns about fetal well-being.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is B. Explain to the client this is an expected occurrence.
A. Tell the client to follow up with a dermatologist: While it's always good to encourage clients to seek professional advice if they have concerns, in the context of melasma during pregnancy, it is generally a normal physiological change. A dermatologist may not be needed specifically for this condition unless there are other unusual symptoms.
B. Explain to the client this is an expected occurrence: This is the correct action. It's important for the nurse to reassure the client that blotchy hyperpigmentation on the forehead is a common and expected change during pregnancy. Providing education and support can help alleviate the client's concerns.
C. Instruct the client to increase her intake of vitamin D: Blotchy hyperpigmentation is not typically addressed by increasing vitamin D intake. While adequate nutrition is important during pregnancy, this specific concern is related more to hormonal changes than nutritional deficiencies.
D. Inform the client she might have an allergy to her skin care products: Melasma is primarily related to hormonal changes in pregnancy rather than an allergic reaction to skin care products. While assessing for allergies is essential in certain situations, it may not be the primary concern in this case.
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