A nurse on the labor and delivery unit is caring for a client following a vaginal examination by the provider, which is documented as: 1. Which of the following interpretations of this finding should the nurse make?
The presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines.
The cervix is effaced 1 cm.
The cervix is 1 cm dilated.
The presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is: c. The cervix is 1 cm dilated.
Choice A reason:
The presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines. This statement would be documented as -1 station. Fetal station is measured in centimeters relative to the ischial spines, with negative numbers indicating the presenting part is above the spines.
Choice B reason:
The cervix is effaced 1 cm. Effacement is measured in percentages, not centimeters. It refers to the thinning of the cervix, which progresses from 0% (not effaced) to 100% (fully effaced).
Choice C reason:
The cervix is 1 cm dilated. This means the cervix has opened 1 cm, which is a common measurement during early labor. Cervical dilation ranges from 0 cm (closed) to 10 cm (fully dilated).
Choice D reason:
The presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines. This would be documented as +1 station. Positive numbers indicate the presenting part is below the ischial spines, moving towards delivery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: A weight gain of about 1 pound per week is a general guideline for women with normal BMI. However, for a client with a BMI of 26.5, the recommended weight gain during pregnancy may differ.
Choice B: Gaining 11 to 20 pounds may not be sufficient for a client with a BMI of 26.5, as the recommended weight gain is slightly higher for women with a higher prepregnancy BMI.
Choice C: For a client with a BMI of 26.5, the recommended weight gain during pregnancy is approximately 15 to 25 pounds. This range is specific to women with a BMI in the overweight category.
Choice D: Gaining 25 to 35 pounds is recommended for clients with a lower BMI range (normal BMI). For a client with a BMI of 26.5, this amount of weight gain may be excessive.

Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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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