A nurse in a prenatal clinic is teaching a client who has a new prescription for dinoprostone gel. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. The pattern of contractions is important in assessing labor, but the presence of regular contractions alone does not confirm true labor. It is the changes in the cervix that indicate progress in labor.

B. The station of the presenting part (the level at which the baby's head has descended into the pelvis) is also a factor in labor, but it is not the primary indicator of true labor. Changes in the cervix are more indicative.

C. Changes in the cervix are a key sign of true labor.

True labor involves cervical effacement (thinning) and dilation (opening). These changes in the cervix signify progress in the labor process.

D. Rupture of the membranes (water breaking) can be a sign of labor, but it doesn't confirm true labor on its own. It might occur before, during, or after labor has begun.

The correct answer is C. Observe for crowning.

A. Applying fundal pressure is not indicated when the fetal head is at 3+ station. Fundal pressure is generally discouraged as it can increase the risk of fetal and maternal complications.

B. Preparing to administer oxytocin may be necessary later in labor but is not the immediate priority when the fetal head is still at 3+ station.

C. Observing for crowning is the correct action.

Crowning occurs when the widest part of the fetal head is visible at the vaginal opening during contractions. It is a sign that the baby is descending and the client is in the second stage of labor.

D. Observing for the presence of a nuchal cord is a valid consideration, but observing for crowning takes precedence at this stage of labor. Nuchal cords can be managed appropriately once the fetal head has descended further.