A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and has just been examined as being at 7 cm of cervical dilation and 100% effacement. The fetus is at 1+ station, and the client's amniotic membranes are intact. The client suddenly states that she needs to push. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
"Assist the client into a more comfortable position."
"Observe the perineum for signs of crowning."
"Have the client pant or blow during the next contractions to help her refrain from pushing."
"Help the client to the bathroom to empty her bladder."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: At 7 cm dilation, the client is in active labor, and assisting her into a more comfortable position may not be appropriate at this stage. It is essential to observe for signs of impending birth and assess the progress of labor.
Choice B: Crowning is assessed only once full dilation occurs. At 7 cm, this is premature and distracts from interventions that prevent injury from early pushing.
Choice C: Panting or blowing helps suppress the urge to push until full dilation, protecting the cervix and reducing complications. This is the evidence-based intervention recommended in labor management guidelines.
Choice D: While emptying the bladder is generally recommended during labor to provide more room for the baby to descend, the client's current urge to push suggests that the baby is likely in a lower position, and it might not be safe or feasible to move the client to the bathroom.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Kegel exercises are specifically designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role during childbirth. Strengthening these muscles can aid in better control during labor and delivery, facilitating stretching and reducing the risk of injury.
Choice B: Kegel exercises do not have a direct impact on preventing constipation during pregnancy. However, they may help improve bowel control and prevent fecal incontinence.
Choice C: While Kegel exercises can improve posture and core strength, their primary benefit lies in strengthening the pelvic muscles, not directly reducing backaches throughout pregnancy.
Choice D: Kegel exercises are not intended to prevent stretch marks on the abdomen. Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of the skin during pregnancy and are not related to pelvic muscle exercises.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Leukorrhea, which refers to an increase in vaginal discharge, is a common discomfort during pregnancy and is generally not a cause for concern.
Choice B: Painful and tender areas on the leg may be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially dangerous condition. During pregnancy, there is an increased risk of developing blood clots, and DVT can be a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention.
Choice C: Nausea and vomiting are common in early pregnancy and are usually associated with morning sickness. While it can be uncomfortable, it is generally not considered a dangerous symptom unless it leads to severe dehydration.
Choice D: Urinary frequency is a common discomfort during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters. Although it can be bothersome, it is not typically a sign of immediate danger.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today