A nurse is assessing a client who presents to the labor and delivery unit reporting the onset of contractions. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of false labor?
Slow change in dilation and effacement
Contraction intensity increased by ambulation
Presence of bloody show
Intermittent, painless contractions
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Slow change in dilation and effacement: Even slow cervical changes are indicative of true labor. False labor does not cause any progressive cervical dilation or effacement, making this an inconsistent finding for false labor.
B. Contraction intensity increased by ambulation: In true labor, contractions typically intensify with activity such as walking. In contrast, false labor contractions often diminish or resolve with changes in position or ambulation.
C. Presence of bloody show: Bloody show results from cervical dilation and the disruption of cervical capillaries. It is a hallmark of true labor and would not be expected during false labor.
D. Intermittent, painless contractions: False labor is characterized by irregular, non-progressive, and typically painless contractions, often referred to as Braxton Hicks contractions. These are normal in late pregnancy but do not indicate true labor.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Assess the client's peripheral pulses every 15 min: Frequent assessment of peripheral pulses is essential to monitor for signs of arterial obstruction, bleeding, or hematoma formation at the femoral site. This helps ensure adequate perfusion and detect complications early.
B. Elevate the head of the client's bed to 45°: After femoral catheterization, the head of the bed should be elevated no more than 30° to reduce pressure at the puncture site and prevent bleeding. A 45° angle may increase the risk of hemorrhage.
C. Change the client's dressing 4 hr following the procedure: The dressing should remain in place and be monitored for signs of bleeding or saturation. Routine dressing changes shortly after the procedure are not recommended unless soiled or ordered.
D. Instruct the client to flex the right knee every 30 min: Flexing the leg increases the risk of dislodging the clot or reopening the arterial puncture site. The affected leg should remain straight and immobilized for several hours post-procedure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Monitor the client's vital signs every hour following the procedure: Vital signs, especially blood pressure, should be monitored more frequently—usually every 5 to 15 minutes immediately after epidural initiation—to assess for hypotension, a common complication.
B. Review the client's platelet count level prior to the procedure: A low platelet count increases the risk of epidural hematoma during needle insertion. Reviewing coagulation status is essential to ensure it's safe to proceed with epidural placement.
C. Inform the client that their bladder should be full before the procedure: The bladder should be emptied, not full, prior to the procedure. A full bladder increases discomfort, impairs fetal descent, and may lead to urinary retention after the epidural is placed.
D. Obtain the client's consent following the procedure: Informed consent must be obtained before any invasive procedure, including epidural anesthesia. Performing the procedure without prior consent violates patient autonomy and legal standards.
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