A nurse midwife is examining a client who is a primigravida at 42 weeks of gestation and states that she believes she is in labor. Which of the following findings confirm to the nurse that the client is in labor?
"Report of pain above the umbilicus"
"Amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault"
"Brownish vaginal discharge"
"Cervical dilation"
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A: Pain above the umbilicus may be associated with various conditions during pregnancy, but it is not a definitive sign of labor.
Choice B: The presence of amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault (rupture of membranes or "water breaking") can be a sign of labor, but it is not the most specific indicator.
Choice C: Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate the passage of old blood or "bloody show," which can be a sign of impending labor. However, it is not as reliable as cervical dilation.
Choice D: Cervical dilation is one of the most definitive signs of labor. As the cervix opens and thins (effaces), it allows for the baby's passage through the birth canal. Cervical dilation is an essential indicator of active labor.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Increasing the rate of infusion of the IV oxytocin would worsen the uterine hyperstimulation and fetal distress that are indicated by the frequent, long, and strong contractions and uniform decelerations.
B. Correct. Discontinuing the infusion of the IV oxytocin would stop the uterine hyperstimulation and allow the fetus to recover from hypoxia.
C. Incorrect. Decreasing the rate of infusion of the maintenance IV solution would not affect the uterine hyperstimulation or fetal distress, as they are caused by the oxytocin, not by the fluid volume.
D. Incorrect. Slowing the client's rate of breathing would not help with the uterine hyperstimulation or fetal distress, as they are not related to maternal hyperventilation or respiratory alkalosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: The client's symptoms of lightheadedness and tingling fingers indicate that she may be hyperventilating, which can occur when patternpaced breathing is too rapid. Breathing into a paper bag can help the client rebreathe some of the exhaled carbon dioxide, which can help correct the respiratory alkalosis caused by hyperventilation.
Choice B: Administering oxygen via nasal cannula may not address the underlying issue of hyperventilation. It is more appropriate to assist the client in slowing down her breathing pattern.
Choice C: Tucking the chin to the chest is not relevant to the client's symptoms of hyperventilation.
Choice D: Instructing the client to increase her respiratory rate would exacerbate the hyperventilation, leading to more symptoms of respiratory alkalosis.
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