A nurse Is caring for a primigravid client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and asks, "How will I know if I am in labor?" Which of the following manifestations of true labor should the nurse discuss with the client? (Select All that Apply.)
Contractions that increase in intensity
Leakage of fluid from the vagina
increased bladder pressure
Blood-tinged vaginal mucus
Uterine contractions that decrease with rest
Correct Answer : A,B,D
A) Contractions that increase in intensity:
This is a hallmark sign of true labor. In true labor, contractions become progressively more intense, frequent, and regular. They also do not subside with rest or changes in activity. The intensity of contractions gradually increases as the cervix dilates and effaces, signaling the onset of labor.
B) Leakage of fluid from the vagina:
Leakage of fluid from the vagina, particularly if it is clear and odorless, is indicative of rupture of membranes, which can occur in true labor. If the membranes rupture and there is a continuous leakage of fluid, it is important for the client to contact the healthcare provider as it may signal the onset of labor. This is a significant sign of labor, especially if accompanied by contractions.
C) Increased bladder pressure:
Increased bladder pressure can occur in pregnancy, especially as the uterus grows and presses on the bladder. However, bladder pressure alone is not a definitive sign of true labor. It can also be a common complaint during late pregnancy, even before labor begins. This symptom would not be specific to true labor.
D) Blood-tinged vaginal mucus:
A bloody show, or blood-tinged mucus, is another classic sign of true labor. This happens as the cervix begins to soften, dilate, and efface, causing small blood vessels in the cervix to break. The bloody show is typically a pink or brownish mucus discharge and can occur just before labor starts, signaling that the cervix is changing in preparation for delivery.
E) Uterine contractions that decrease with rest:
This is a characteristic of false labor (Braxton Hicks contractions). In false labor, contractions tend to decrease or stop when the woman changes position, rests, or hydrates. On the other hand, in true labor, contractions persist and increase in intensity and frequency even with rest or hydration. Therefore, this is not a sign of true labor.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) G5 T1 P2 A1 L2:
G (Gravida): Gravida refers to the total number of pregnancies, including the current pregnancy. In this case, the woman is currently pregnant and has had 4 previous pregnancies (one miscarriage at 10 weeks, one at 22 weeks, and two live births). Therefore, her Gravida (G) is 5.
T (Term births): Term births are those that occur at or after 37 weeks of gestation. The woman delivered an 18-month-old daughter who was born 2 days after her due date, which is a term birth. Thus, her Term (T) is 1.
P (Preterm births): Preterm births occur between 20 and 36 weeks of gestation. The woman had a son born at 35 weeks, which is classified as a preterm birth. Therefore, the Preterm (P) is 2.
A (Abortions or miscarriages): Abortions refer to pregnancies that ended before 20 weeks of gestation. The woman experienced two miscarriages, one at 10 weeks and one at 22 weeks. Thus, the Abortions (A) is 1.
L (Living children): Living children are those who are currently alive. The woman has a 3-year-old son and an 18-month-old daughter, so the Living (L) is 2.
Thus, the correct GTPAL classification is G5 T1 P2 A1 L2.
B) G5 T2 P2 A1 L2:
This is incorrect because the woman had only one term birth (not two). She delivered her daughter at term, but the son was preterm (born at 35 weeks). Therefore, her Term (T) should be 1, not 2.
C) G4 T1 P2 A2 L2:
This is incorrect because the woman is currently pregnant, so her Gravida (G) is 5, not 4. Additionally, the woman had 1 abortion, not 2.
D) G4 T1 P1 A2 L2:
This is also incorrect because the woman is currently pregnant, so her Gravida (G) is 5, not 4. Furthermore, the woman had 2 preterm births, not 1.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A"},"F":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
Client Finding Assessment:
White blood cell count (18,000/mm³)
Expected: An elevated white blood cell count is common postpartum due to the body's inflammatory response to delivery, especially within the first few days after birth. This level is within the typical postpartum range of 5,000 to 30,000/mm³.
Blood clot size (pea-sized)
Expected: Small blood clots are common during the early postpartum period. It is normal to see some small clots in the lochia as the uterus contracts and expels blood from the uterine lining.
Uterine findings (firm and midline, 1–2 cm below the umbilicus)
Expected: A firm, midline uterus with a descent of about 1–2 cm below the umbilicus is a normal finding during the early postpartum period. This indicates appropriate uterine involution.
Lochia findings (moderate to light amount, no odor, with clots)
Expected: Lochia rubra (red blood flow) is expected during the first few days postpartum, with moderate bleeding and the presence of small clots. The absence of foul odor suggests no infection, which is a positive sign.
Calf findings (one varicose vein visible on left calf)
Expected: It is common for women to have visible varicose veins during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the veins. These may persist postpartum, and unless associated with pain or swelling, they do not typically require intervention.
Blood pressure (145/98 mm Hg)
Unexpected: Elevated blood pressure postpartum is concerning and could indicate postpartum hypertension or preeclampsia. This needs to be addressed and monitored closely as it can be a sign of a serious condition that requires further evaluation.
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