A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is at 38 weeks of gestation.
What condition is the client most likely experiencing, what are 2 actions the nurse should take to address that
condition, and what are 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s progress?
The client is experiencing preterm labor.
The nurse should administer prescribed medication and encourage bed rest.
The nurse should monitor contraction frequency and fetal heart rate.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring contraction frequency is essential to assess the progression of labor. Contractions are the tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles that help to dilate the cervix and push the baby down the birth canal. The frequency of contractions is measured in minutes from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next. As labor progresses, contractions become more frequent, regular, and intense. Monitoring contraction frequency helps the nurse to determine the stage of labor, assess the effectiveness of interventions, and identify any potential complications.
Monitoring fetal heart rate is crucial to assess the well-being of the baby during labor. The fetal heart rate is normally between 110 and 160 beats per minute. A normal fetal heart rate indicates that the baby is getting enough oxygen and is not in distress. Variations in the fetal heart rate, such as decelerations or tachycardia, can indicate potential problems and may require intervention.
Choice A rationale:
Preterm labor is defined as labor that begins before 37 weeks of gestation. The client in this scenario is at 38 weeks of gestation, which is considered term. Therefore, preterm labor is not the most likely condition.
Choice B rationale:
The administration of medication and bed rest may be appropriate interventions for preterm labor, but they are not the most appropriate interventions for a client in labor at 38 weeks of gestation. At this stage of pregnancy, labor is considered to be full-term, and interventions are focused on supporting the normal labor process and ensuring the safety of the mother and baby.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Evaluating the side effects of analgesia is not the priority action in this situation. While it's important to assess for potential
side effects, the client's immediate need to use the bathroom takes precedence.
Analgesia might contribute to urinary retention in some cases, but it's not the most likely reason for the client's request.
Promptly addressing the client's need to void helps prevent bladder distention, discomfort, and potential urinary tract
infections.
Choice B rationale:
Using a wheelchair is not necessary in most cases after a vaginal birth.
Early ambulation is generally encouraged to promote circulation, prevent blood clots, and aid in recovery.
Requiring a wheelchair could delay the client's ability to void and might make her feel less independent.
Choice C rationale:
Advising the client to remain in bed is not recommended practice after a vaginal birth.
Prolonged bed rest can increase the risk of complications, such as blood clots, muscle weakness, and delayed bowel function.
Early ambulation, as tolerated, is crucial for promoting physical recovery and preventing postpartum complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The presence of a “bloody show” from the vagina is a normal part of labor. It’s caused by the expulsion of the mucus plug that
has sealed the cervix during pregnancy. This is a common occurrence and does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice B rationale:
Early decelerations in the Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) are usually not a cause for concern. They are often a sign of head
compression, which is a normal occurrence during labor. Therefore, this finding does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice C rationale:
Uterine contractions lasting 2 minutes could be a sign of a complication known as “uterine tachysystole” or “hyperstimulation”. This condition can reduce oxygen supply to the baby and may require medical intervention. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Feeling pelvic pressure with contractions is a normal part of the second stage of labor. This pressure is due to the baby moving
down into the birth canal. Therefore, this finding does not need to be reported to the provider.
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