How is fetal well-being during labor assessed?

Choice A reason: Raising the woman's legs is not the best initial response, as it may worsen the dizziness and light-headedness. This is because raising the legs can increase the blood flow to the lower extremities and decrease the blood flow to the brain, which can cause hypotension (low blood pressure) and hypoxia (low oxygen) in the woman and the fetus.

Choice B reason: Having the woman breathe into a paper bag is not the best initial response, as it may not address the underlying cause of the dizziness and light-headedness. This technique is usually used for hyperventilation (rapid breathing), which can cause respiratory alkalosis (high blood pH) and reduce the carbon dioxide levels in the blood. However, the woman may not be hyperventilating, but rather experiencing supine hypotensive syndrome (low blood pressure when lying on the back) due to the pressure of the uterus on the inferior vena cava (a large vein that returns blood to the heart)².

Choice C reason: Turning the woman on her side is the best initial response, as it can relieve the dizziness and light-headedness by improving the blood flow to the brain and the fetus. This is because turning the woman on her side can reduce the pressure of the uterus on the inferior vena cava and increase the cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped by the heart) and the blood pressure. The left lateral position is preferred, as it can also optimize the placental perfusion (the blood flow to the placenta) and the fetal oxygenation.

Choice D reason: Assessing the woman's blood pressure and pulse is an important response, but not the first one. After turning the woman on her side, the nurse should monitor the vital signs and the fetal heart rate to evaluate the condition of the woman and the fetus. The nurse should also check for other signs and symptoms of supine hypotensive syndrome, such as nausea, sweating, and visual disturbances.

Choice A reason: Limiting time spent wearing a wet bathing suit is a good preventive measure, as it can reduce the moisture and warmth that can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi in the genital area. The nurse should advise the 15-year old to change into dry clothes as soon as possible after swimming or bathing.

Choice B reason: Not douching is a good preventive measure, as it can preserve the natural balance of the vaginal flora and pH. The nurse should explain to the 15-year old that douching can wash away the protective mucus and lactobacilli that prevent infections, and it can also introduce harmful substances or microorganisms into the vagina.

Choice C reason: Wearing nylon undergarments is not a good preventive measure, as it can trap heat and moisture in the genital area and create a favorable environment for infections. The nurse should recommend the 15-year old to wear cotton or breathable fabrics that can absorb sweat and allow air circulation.

Choice D reason: Using floral scented bath salts is not a good preventive measure, as it can irritate the genital mucosa and alter the vaginal pH. The nurse should caution the 15-year old to avoid using any products that contain perfumes, dyes, or chemicals in the genital area, as they can cause allergic reactions or infections.

Choice E reason: Decreasing sugar intake is a good preventive measure, as it can lower the risk of yeast infections. The nurse should educate the 15-year old that sugar can feed the growth of Candida albicans, which is a common cause of vaginal candidiasis. The nurse should also encourage the 15-year old to eat a balanced diet that includes probiotics, such as yogurt, to maintain a healthy vaginal flora.

Choice F reason: Avoiding tight-fitting jeans is a good preventive measure, as it can prevent friction and pressure on the genital area. The nurse should suggest the 15-year old to wear loose or comfortable clothing that can reduce the risk of skin irritation or injury, which can lead to infections.