A client in the second stage of labor reports to a nurse that they are feeling pain and pressure in their pelvis and perinium. Which of the following should the nurse understand that this pain is caused by?
Uterine contractions
The fetal head applying pressure
Nerve stimulation
Cervical dilation
The Correct Answer is B
A) Uterine contractions:
While uterine contractions cause significant pain and discomfort during labor, particularly in the first and early second stages, by the time the client reaches the second stage of labor, the cervix is fully dilated, and the main cause of pain and pressure is no longer from the contractions themselves. Instead, the pain and pressure described in the second stage are primarily due to the fetal head descending through the birth canal, applying pressure to the perineum.
B) The fetal head applying pressure:
The pain and pressure reported in the second stage of labor are primarily due to the fetal head descending into and through the birth canal, putting pressure on the cervix, vagina, perineum, and pelvic floor. This pressure is a major source of discomfort in the second stage, as the fetal head stretches the tissues of the perineum, which is essential for facilitating birth. The sensation of pressure on the pelvic floor is often described by clients during this stage.
C) Nerve stimulation:
Nerve stimulation occurs during labor as a result of uterine contractions and the fetal descent, which can cause radiating pain to the lower back, thighs, and pelvic region. However, the specific pain and pressure in the pelvis and perineum described by the client are more directly related to the fetal head applying pressure, rather than generalized nerve stimulation. Nerve stimulation may contribute to pain but is not the primary cause of the pelvic and perineal pressure at this stage.
D) Cervical dilation:
Cervical dilation occurs in the earlier stages of labor (latent and active phases), and while it contributes to pain during these stages, by the second stage, the cervix should be fully dilated (10 cm). The pain and pressure that the client is feeling in the second stage are less about cervical dilation and more about the descent of the fetal head through the birth canal and its pressure on the perineum and pelvic floor.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Milia:
Milia are tiny white or yellowish cysts that appear on a newborn's face, particularly on the nose, chin, or forehead. They are caused by the accumulation of keratin under the skin. Milia usually disappear within a few weeks of life and are not related to the pinkish marks described in the question.
B) Telangiectatic nevi (stork bites):
This finding is consistent with telangiectatic nevi, also known as stork bites. These are flat, irregular, pinkish-red marks often found on the forehead, eyelids, and nape of the neck. They are caused by dilated capillaries in the skin and are common in newborns. The marks blanch when pressed and are usually harmless, disappearing within the first 1-2 years of life. This is the correct answer based on the description provided in the question.
C) Nevus flammeus (port wine stain):
A port wine stain is a dark red to purple, flat birthmark caused by capillary malformations. Unlike stork bites, a port wine stain does not blanch when pressed and is typically present for life. It usually appears on the face, neck, or arms, and the coloration remains the same over time.
D) Nevus vasculosus (strawberry mark):
A strawberry mark is a raised, red, and bumpy birthmark that results from proliferation of capillaries. These marks typically appear in the first few weeks of life and grow in size before eventually shrinking and disappearing by the age of 5-10 years. Strawberry marks are not flat, pinkish, or blanchable, making this option unlikely in the scenario described.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
A) Contractions that increase in intensity:
This is a hallmark sign of true labor. In true labor, contractions become progressively more intense, frequent, and regular. They also do not subside with rest or changes in activity. The intensity of contractions gradually increases as the cervix dilates and effaces, signaling the onset of labor.
B) Leakage of fluid from the vagina:
Leakage of fluid from the vagina, particularly if it is clear and odorless, is indicative of rupture of membranes, which can occur in true labor. If the membranes rupture and there is a continuous leakage of fluid, it is important for the client to contact the healthcare provider as it may signal the onset of labor. This is a significant sign of labor, especially if accompanied by contractions.
C) Increased bladder pressure:
Increased bladder pressure can occur in pregnancy, especially as the uterus grows and presses on the bladder. However, bladder pressure alone is not a definitive sign of true labor. It can also be a common complaint during late pregnancy, even before labor begins. This symptom would not be specific to true labor.
D) Blood-tinged vaginal mucus:
A bloody show, or blood-tinged mucus, is another classic sign of true labor. This happens as the cervix begins to soften, dilate, and efface, causing small blood vessels in the cervix to break. The bloody show is typically a pink or brownish mucus discharge and can occur just before labor starts, signaling that the cervix is changing in preparation for delivery.
E) Uterine contractions that decrease with rest:
This is a characteristic of false labor (Braxton Hicks contractions). In false labor, contractions tend to decrease or stop when the woman changes position, rests, or hydrates. On the other hand, in true labor, contractions persist and increase in intensity and frequency even with rest or hydration. Therefore, this is not a sign of true labor.
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