A laboring woman is lying in the supine position.
The most appropriate nursing action at this time is to:.

Choice A rationale:

Morning sickness, which refers to nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, is a common symptom but not a definitive sign of pregnancy. It can also be caused by various other factors such as food poisoning or gastrointestinal issues. Therefore, it is not a positive sign of pregnancy.

Choice B rationale:

Quickening, which refers to the first fetal movements felt by the mother, is a subjective sign of pregnancy. It is not a definitive indication of pregnancy as it can be mistaken for other abdominal sensations. Quickening usually occurs between 18 to 22 weeks of gestation, making it a later sign and not an early positive sign of pregnancy.

Choice C rationale:

A positive pregnancy test, specifically a blood or urine test detecting human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is a reliable indicator of pregnancy. However, it is a biochemical sign and not a physical sign. It does not directly confirm the presence of the fetus or its well-being, making it less specific than auscultating the fetal heartbeat.

Choice D rationale:

Fetal heartbeat auscultated with Doppler/fetoscope is a positive sign of pregnancy. The healthcare provider can hear the fetal heartbeat using a Doppler ultrasound device or fetoscope, confirming the presence of a viable pregnancy. This sign is considered positive because it directly indicates the presence of a developing fetus, providing reassurance about the pregnancy status. Fetal heartbeat can usually be detected around 10 to 12 weeks of gestation.

Choice A rationale:

Using maternity jargon might confuse the patient, especially if she has limited English proficiency. It is important to use simple and clear language to ensure the patient understands the information. Using jargon would not be effective in this situation.

Choice B rationale:

Speaking quickly and efficiently may further complicate communication, especially considering the patient's limited English proficiency. It is crucial to speak slowly, clearly, and allow time for the patient to process and respond. Rushing the conversation may hinder effective communication.

Choice C rationale:

Providing handouts can be helpful, but it should not be the sole method of communication, especially when dealing with a patient who has limited English proficiency. Handouts may not be available in the patient's language or may not address her specific concerns. Assessing direct understanding through conversation is essential.

Choice D rationale:

Assessing whether the patient understands the discussion is the most crucial step. This can be done through various methods, such as asking open-ended questions, using interpreters if necessary, and encouraging the patient to ask questions. Ensuring the patient comprehends the information provided is vital for her overall care and adherence to medical advice.