A nurse midwife is examining a client who is a primigravida at 42 weeks of gestation and states that she believes she is in labor. Which of the following findings confirm to the nurse that the client is in labor?
"Report of pain above the umbilicus"
"Amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault"
"Brownish vaginal discharge"
"Cervical dilation"
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A: Pain above the umbilicus may be associated with various conditions during pregnancy, but it is not a definitive sign of labor.
Choice B: The presence of amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault (rupture of membranes or "water breaking") can be a sign of labor, but it is not the most specific indicator.
Choice C: Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate the passage of old blood or "bloody show," which can be a sign of impending labor. However, it is not as reliable as cervical dilation.
Choice D: Cervical dilation is one of the most definitive signs of labor. As the cervix opens and thins (effaces), it allows for the baby's passage through the birth canal. Cervical dilation is an essential indicator of active labor.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is: c. The cervix is 1 cm dilated.
Choice A reason:
The presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines. This statement would be documented as -1 station. Fetal station is measured in centimeters relative to the ischial spines, with negative numbers indicating the presenting part is above the spines.
Choice B reason:
The cervix is effaced 1 cm. Effacement is measured in percentages, not centimeters. It refers to the thinning of the cervix, which progresses from 0% (not effaced) to 100% (fully effaced).
Choice C reason:
The cervix is 1 cm dilated. This means the cervix has opened 1 cm, which is a common measurement during early labor. Cervical dilation ranges from 0 cm (closed) to 10 cm (fully dilated).
Choice D reason:
The presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines. This would be documented as +1 station. Positive numbers indicate the presenting part is below the ischial spines, moving towards delivery.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: It is not accurate to say that a repeat cesarean birth will always be safer. The decision for a repeat cesarean or a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) depends on various factors, including the client's medical history and the type of incision used in the previous cesarean.
Choice B: While there are multiple factors to consider, the nurse can still provide general information about the possibility of attempting a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).
Choice C: While focusing on the health of the newborn is important, the client's question about the possibility of a future VBAC can be addressed without dismissing her concerns.
Choice D: The type of incision used in the previous cesarean birth (such as low transverse incision) is a significant factor in determining the eligibility for a VBAC in subsequent pregnancies. Clients with certain types of incisions may have a higher likelihood of success with a VBAC.
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