A nurse is assisting in evaluating a client's progress during labor.

Exhibits

Click to highlight the client findings that indicate the labor is progressing as expected. To deselect a finding, click on the finding again.

Nurses' Notes

1615:

Client is in the partial sitting position and is instructed to bear down during uterine contraction. Client reports the urge to defecate. There is increased bloody show and the cervix is 10 cm dilated. Contractions 5 min apart. Contractions strong on palpation.

Vital Signs

1615:

Temperature 39.1° C (102.4" F)

Respiratory rate 20/min

Heart rate 110/min

Blood pressure 100/74 mm Hg

Oxygen saturation 96%

Rationale for Correct Options:

• Urge to defecate occurs as the fetal head descends further into the birth canal, putting pressure on the rectum and perineum. This is a common sign of the second stage of labor, indicating that the client is nearing delivery.
• Increased bloody show results from cervical dilation and effacement as the capillaries in the cervix rupture. A greater amount of blood-tinged mucus is expected as labor progresses, particularly in the transition phase and early second stage.
• Cervix 10 cm dilated confirms that the client has reached full cervical dilation, which is required for the second stage of labor to begin. Complete dilation allows for the passage of the fetus through the birth canal.
• Contractions strong on palpation indicate effective uterine activity, which is necessary for fetal descent and expulsion. Strong contractions help in moving the baby downward and increasing pressure on the cervix.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

• A heart rate of 110/min is elevated compared to the client’s earlier readings (90/min at 0830, 110/min at 0845) and may indicate maternal stress or exertion from labor pain. While mild increases in maternal heart rate are expected during labor, tachycardia above 110/min warrants further evaluation, particularly in the presence of fever.
• Temperature of 39.1°C (102.4°F). This temperature is abnormally high and suggests infection, such as chorioamnionitis, especially considering the prolonged rupture of membranes since 1900 the previous night. Normal maternal temperature may rise slightly during labor due to exertion, but fever above 38°C (100.4°F) is concerning and requires medical attention.