A 28-year-old female client is admitted to the labor and delivery unit at 0700hrs. She is 34 weeks pregnant and reports having low back pain and frequent urination since last night. She mentions that urination is painful and she can only pass a small amount each time.

Exhibits

Given the client’s symptoms and the progression of her condition, the nurse suspects that the client may be experiencing complications related to preterm labor and a possible urinary tract infection (UTI). For each characteristic in the table, select whether it is more likely to be associated with preterm labor, a urinary tract infection (UTI), or both. Each column must have at least one response option selected. Candidates can select as many options as apply for each column.

Choice A rationale
Assisting with amnioinfusion is not the first priority. Amnioinfusion is a procedure where a sterile solution is introduced into the uterus to increase the volume of fluid around the fetus. It is typically used in cases of oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) or to dilute thick meconium in the amniotic fluid.
Choice B rationale
Inserting a scalp electrode is not the first priority. A scalp electrode is a device used to monitor the fetal heart rate more accurately. It is usually used when external monitoring does not provide a clear reading or when there is a need for continuous detailed monitoring.

Choice C rationale
Changing the woman’s position is the correct action. Late decelerations in the fetal heart rate can be a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, a condition where the placenta cannot deliver adequate oxygen to the fetus. Changing the woman’s position can improve placental blood flow and potentially improve the oxygen supply to the fetus.
Choice D rationale
Notifying the health care provider is important but not the first priority. The nurse should first attempt interventions such as changing the woman’s position to improve the fetal heart rate.

Choice A rationale
A displaced fundus from the midline in a postpartum client can indicate a full bladder, which can interfere with uterine contraction and lead to excessive bleeding. This is a serious

condition that requires immediate attention to prevent further complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
A fundal height below the umbilicus is a normal finding in a postpartum client. The uterus normally decreases in size after delivery, and the fundus is typically located at or below the level of the umbilicus within 24 hours postpartum.
Choice C rationale
Increased urine output is a normal physiological response after delivery. During pregnancy, there is an increase in blood volume that leads to increased fluid in the body. After delivery, the body eliminates this extra fluid through increased urine output.
Choice D rationale
A decreased urge to void can be a normal finding in the immediate postpartum period due to decreased bladder sensitivity from the trauma of childbirth or epidural anesthesia. However, it’s important for the nurse to monitor this because urinary retention can lead to bladder distention and uterine atony, increasing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.