A nurse is preparing to perform Leopold maneuvers for a client. Identify the sequence the nurse should follow. (Move the steps, placing them in the order of performance. Use all the steps.)

The correct answer is A. Cervical dilation.

A. Cervical dilation is a definitive sign of labor.

Cervical dilation is the opening of the cervix, and it is a key indicator of the active phase of labor. Measurement of cervical dilation is an essential component of assessing the progress of labor.

B. Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate various things, including the presence of old blood or mucus. While it could be a sign of impending labor, it is not a definitive confirmation of active labor.

C. Amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault could suggest rupture of membranes, but it alone does not confirm the active phase of labor.

D. Pain above the umbilicus is not a specific or conclusive sign of labor. Labor pain typically originates in the lower abdomen and pelvis.

The correct answer is A. "It sounds like you are feeling sad that things didn't go as planned."

A. This response reflects empathy and acknowledges the client's feelings without judgment. It validates the client's emotions and provides an opportunity for her to express her feelings further.

B. "Maybe next time you can have a vaginal delivery" is not an appropriate response as it assumes that the client will or should have another pregnancy and may have a vaginal delivery. It is more important to address the current emotions and experience.

C. "At least you know you have a healthy baby" dismisses the client's feelings of disappointment. While the health of the baby is important, it's essential to acknowledge and validate the client's emotional experience.

D. "You can resume sexual relations sooner than if you had delivered vaginally" is not relevant to the client's expressed disappointment about the mode of delivery. It may not be an appropriate or comforting statement given the context.