The client has been having contractions every 5 minutes for 7 hours.

Which factor would the nurse use to determine if this is true labor?

Choice A rationale
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is not typically associated with perineal sepsis; rather, it is a bacterium that colonizes the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts.
Choice B rationale
While GBS colonization can pose risks, chorioamnionitis is a different infection involving the membranes and amniotic fluid, often caused by a variety of microorganisms, not solely GBS.
Choice C rationale
GBS is not primarily sexually transmitted; it is a bacterium naturally present in the genital and digestive tracts, and colonization can occur without sexual contact.
Choice D rationale
Neonatal sepsis is a serious risk for babies born to mothers colonized with GBS, necessitating antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent transmission and subsequent infection in the newborn.

Choice A rationale
Hypertension is not a common side effect of epidural blocks; instead, hypotension is more likely due to vasodilation. Monitoring for hypertension is not the most important intervention.
Choice B rationale
Bradycardia is a potential side effect of epidural blocks due to sympathetic blockade. Monitoring the maternal pulse for bradycardia ensures timely intervention if this side effect occurs.
Choice C rationale
Epidural blocks do not typically cause fetal tachycardia. Monitoring the fetus for tachycardia is not the primary nursing intervention following epidural administration.
Choice D rationale
Limiting parenteral fluids is not advised after an epidural block as fluids are essential to counteract potential hypotension. Fluid management is crucial to maintain maternal and fetal hemodynamics.