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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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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.

A. Swelling of the face B. Varicose veins in the calves C. Nonpitting 1+ ankle edema D. Hyperpigmentation of the cheeks

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The correct answer is A.

A. Swelling of the face: Facial swelling, especially sudden or severe swelling, could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ dysfunction. Any new or significant facial swelling should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider for evaluation.

B. Varicose veins in the calves: Varicose veins are a common occurrence during pregnancy due to increased pressure on the veins. While they can cause discomfort, they are generally not considered a significant concern unless there are signs of complications, such as inflammation or blood clots.

C. Nonpitting 1+ ankle edema: Mild ankle edema is relatively common during pregnancy and may not be concerning unless it becomes severe, sudden, or is associated with other symptoms. Nonpitting edema is generally less concerning than pitting edema but should still be monitored.

D. Hyperpigmentation of the cheeks: Hyperpigmentation, often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" or melasma, is a common and benign condition during pregnancy. While it may be bothersome to some individuals, it is not typically a concern that requires immediate reporting to the provider.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in a prenatal clinic is caring for a client who reports that her menstrual period is 2 weeks late. The client appears anxious and asks the nurse if she is pregnant. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who is at 30 weeks of gestation during a routine prenatal visit. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled to receive intravenous oxytocin for the induction of labor. The client has a Bishop score of 8 which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A nurse is caring for a client who is in the active phase of the first stage of labor. When monitoring the uterine contractions, which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A nurse is caring for a client in active labor who has meconium staining of the amniotic fluid. The nurse notes a reassuring fetal heart rate (FHR) tracing from the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform?

A nurse is assessing the newborn of a client who took a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) during pregnancy. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as an indication of withdrawal from an SSRI?

A nurse in a family planning clinic is caring for a client who requests an oral contraceptive. Which of the following findings in the client's history should the nurse recognize as a contraindication to oral contraceptives? (Select all that apply)

A nurse is teaching a postpartum client about steps the nurses will take to promote the security and safety of the client's newborn. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

A nurse is assessing a newborn following a circumcision. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the newborn is experiencing pain?

A nurse is caring for a client who is in the first stage of labor. The nurse observes the umbilical cord protruding from the vagina. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?