A nurse is admitting a client who is at 38 weeks of gestation and is in the active phase of the first stage of labor. Which of the following assessment findings is the first priority for the nurse to report to the provider?
Contractions lasting 2 minutes and with no rest between contractions.
Pressure on the perineum causing the client to have the desire to bear down.
Discharge consisting of clear fluid from the vagina.
Passage of a bloodtinged mucous plug.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: The first priority assessment finding to report to the provider is contractions lasting 2 minutes and with no rest between contractions. Prolonged contractions without adequate rest can lead to uterine hyperstimulation and fetal distress, potentially compromising the wellbeing of both the client and the baby. The provider needs to be informed immediately for further
evaluation and intervention.
Choice B: Pressure on the perineum and the desire to bear down indicate that the client is experiencing the urge to push, which is expected during the second stage of labor, not during the active phase of the first stage. It is not the first priority to report.
Choice C: Clear fluid discharge from the vagina can indicate rupture of membranes, but it is not an immediate concern unless the fluid is meconiumstained or there are other signs of fetal distress.
Choice D: Passage of a bloodtinged mucous plug (also known as "bloody show") is a common sign that labor is approaching, but it is not an immediate concern unless there are other signs of labor progression or complications. It is not the first priority to report.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A: Quickening, which refers to the sensation of the baby moving in the womb, is considered a presumptive sign of pregnancy. It is called "presumptive" because it is subjective and can be attributed to other causes, such as gas or gastrointestinal movements.
B: Positive signs of pregnancy are those that are attributed only to the presence of a fetus, such as fetal heartbeat or visualization on ultrasound. Feeling the baby move (quickening) is not specific enough to confirm pregnancy on its own.
C: Probable signs of pregnancy are more objective and can be detected by a healthcare provider, such as a positive pregnancy test or ballottement (rebounding of the fetus against the examiner's fingers). Feeling the baby move is not a probable sign as it is subjective and can be attributed to other factors.
D: "Potential sign of pregnancy" is not a recognized classification in pregnancy signs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Position the client on her side: Late decelerations are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, which may be improved by changing the maternal position to improve blood flow to the placenta.
B. Elevate the client's legs: Elevating the client's legs would not directly address the cause of late decelerations.
C. Increase the infusion rate of the IV fluid: While ensuring adequate hydration is important, it is not the priority action when late decelerations are noted.
D. Administer oxygen via a face mask: Oxygen administration may be necessary, but it is not the priority action. Positioning the client on her side to improve blood flow is the priority.
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