When contributing to the plan of care for the 4th stage of labor, the nurse should recognize the client is at the greatest risk of developing which of the following complications?

The correct answer is choice B: “You must be feeling very scared.” This response is an example of therapeutic communication, where the nurse acknowledges the client’s feelings and provides emotional support without making assumptions or giving false reassurances.

Choice A rationale: While it’s true that the presence of a neonatal unit equipped to handle emergencies is reassuring, this response does not address the client’s immediate emotional needs or fears. It’s important for the nurse to recognize and validate the client’s feelings rather than focusing solely on the facilities available.

Choice B rationale: This choice demonstrates empathy and understanding. It allows the client to express their feelings and concerns, which is a crucial aspect of providing emotional support during labor. By acknowledging the client’s potential fear, the nurse opens the door for further communication and support.

Choice C rationale: This response minimizes the client’s individual feelings by suggesting that everyone has the same worries. It can make the client feel that their concerns are not unique or taken seriously, which is not conducive to establishing trust or providing individualized care.

Choice D rationale: This choice provides false reassurance. At 32 weeks of gestation, while the prognosis for the baby is generally good, there are still risks associated with preterm birth. It’s important not to make definitive statements about outcomes that cannot be guaranteed.

The correct answer is choice C. Assist the client to breathe into a paper bag.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to maintain a breathing rate no less than twice the normal rate is not appropriate. This could exacerbate hyperventilation, leading to further lightheadedness and tingling.

Choice B rationale:

Administering oxygen via nasal cannula is not necessary in this situation. The symptoms are due to hyperventilation, not a lack of oxygen.

Choice C rationale:

Assisting the client to breathe into a paper bag helps to rebreathe carbon dioxide, which can correct the respiratory alkalosis caused by hyperventilation. This will alleviate the symptoms of lightheadedness and tingling.

Choice D rationale:

Having the client tuck her chin to her chest is not a recognized intervention for hyperventilation. It would not address the underlying issue of respiratory alkalosis.