A nurse is assessing a newborn who was born vaginally with vacuum extractor assistance. The nurse notes swelling over the newborn's head that crosses the suture line. The nurse should identify the swelling as which of the following findings?

Choice D rationale:

During the transition phase of labor, the nurse should encourage the client to use a pant- blow breathing pattern. The transition phase is intense, and pant-blow breathing (a form of controlled breathing) can help the client manage the pain and reduce anxiety. Panting during contractions allows the client to focus on short, shallow breaths, which can be more effective than deep breathing during this stage.

Choice A rationale:

Assisting the client to void every 3 hours is important during labor, but it is not specific to the transition phase. The nurse should encourage the client to void regularly during the entire labor process to prevent bladder distension and facilitate the descent of the baby. However, during the transition phase, the client may be more focused on contractions and may not need reminders to void every 3 hours.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring contractions every 30 minutes is not appropriate during the transition phase of labor. The transition phase is characterized by frequent and strong contractions, and continuous monitoring of contractions is usually required during this phase to ensure fetal well-being and progress in labor.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client into a lithotomy position is not appropriate during the transition phase of labor. The lithotomy position, where the client lies on their back with legs raised and supported in stirrups, is often used during the pushing phase. During the transition phase, it is more common for the client to be in an upright or semi-reclining position to facilitate the descent of the baby through the birth canal.

Choice A rationale:

Terbutaline is a medication commonly used to stop preterm labor by relaxing the uterine muscles. However, it is contraindicated in clients with heart disease or certain cardiac conditions, as it can cause cardiovascular side effects such as increased heart rate, palpitations, and potential arrhythmias.

Choice B rationale:

Cervical dilation of 2 cm is a typical sign of preterm labor, and the prescription for terbutaline is appropriate to prevent further cervical dilation and delay delivery.

Choice C rationale:

A gestational age of 34 weeks indicates preterm labor, which is precisely the scenario where terbutaline would be administered to halt labor progression and extend the pregnancy.

Choice D rationale:

Allergy to penicillin is unrelated to the administration of terbutaline, as they are different medications with distinct mechanisms of action and side effects.