A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and reports increasing rectal pressure. She is experiencing contractions 2 to 3 min apart, each lasting 80 to 90 seconds, and a vaginal examination reveals that her cervix is dilated to 9 cm. The nurse should identify that the client is in which of the following phases of labor?
Active
Transition
Latent
Descent
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
Active is incorrect. The active phase of labor typically begins when the cervix is around 4 to 6 centimeters dilated. Given that the client's cervix is already dilated to 9 cm, she has progressed beyond the active phase.
Choice B Reason:
Transition is correct. The transition phase is the final part of the first stage of labor and occurs when the cervix is dilated from 8 to 10 centimeters. In this phase, contractions are typically strong, occurring every 2 to 3 minutes, and lasting 80 to 90 seconds. The sensation of increasing rectal pressure is common during the transition phase as the baby's head descends further into the birth canal. The advanced cervical dilation to 9 cm also indicates that the client is in the transition phase, preparing for the second stage of labor.
Choice C Reason:
Latent is incorrect. The latent phase is the early part of the first stage of labor, characterized by cervical dilation from 0 to 3 or 4 centimeters. The client's cervix is already dilated to 9 cm, indicating that she has progressed well beyond the latent phase.
Choice D Reason:
Descent is incorrect. The descent phase is generally associated with the second stage of labor, during which the baby moves through the birth canal. The information provided primarily relates to the first stage of labor, specifically the transition phase, as indicated by the cervical dilation of 9 cm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "This medication will stop your labor": Betamethasone is not intended to stop labor. It is given to promote fetal lung maturity and reduce the risk of complications associated with preterm birth.
B. "This medication stimulates fetal lung maturity": This is the correct statement. Betamethasone is administered to enhance the production of surfactant in the fetal lungs, improving respiratory outcomes for the preterm infant.
C. "This medication will decrease your risk for uterine infections": Betamethasone does not directly decrease the risk of uterine infections. Its primary benefit is in promoting fetal lung maturity.
D. "This medication will increase your baby's weight": Betamethasone is not given to increase the baby's weight. Its main focus is on improving lung function and reducing respiratory complications in preterm infants.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"You can miss your period for several other reasons. Describe your typical menstrual cycle." This response acknowledges that a missed period can result from various factors other than pregnancy, such as stress, changes in weight, hormonal fluctuations, or certain medical conditions. Understanding the client's typical menstrual cycle can help the nurse gather more information about potential reasons for the late period.
Choice B Reason:
"If you have been sexually active and haven't used protection, it is likely that you are pregnant. “This response assumes pregnancy without exploring other possibilities or the client's individual situation.
Choice C Reason:
"Let's check to see if you have any other signs of pregnancy. Have you noticed any abdominal enlargement yet?" While considering other signs of pregnancy is reasonable, focusing on abdominal enlargement may not be the most accurate early indicator, and it's essential to explore a broader range of symptoms.
Choice D Reason:
"Because you have missed your period, you should try taking a home pregnancy test before you start worrying. "While suggesting a home pregnancy test is reasonable, it may be more beneficial to gather additional information about the client's menstrual cycle and potential symptoms before jumping directly to a test.
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