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 cervix is effaced 1 cm.
The cervix is 1 cm dilated.
The presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines.
The presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines
The Correct Answer is D
A. The cervix being effaced is not represented by the -1 notation in a vaginal examination. Effacement is usually expressed as a percentage.
B. The -1 notation does not represent cervical dilation. Dilation is measured in centimeters.
C. The presenting part being 1 cm below the ischial spines is not correct. In the station system, if the presenting part is above the ischial spines, it is represented by a negative number. A -1 station indicates that the presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines.
D. The presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines is the correct interpretation.
In the station system, if the presenting part is above the ischial spines, it is represented by a negative number. A -1 station indicates that the presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D.
A. Maintain the client NPO throughout the procedure: It is not necessary to maintain the client NPO (nothing by mouth) for a nonstress test. The test primarily involves monitoring fetal heart rate in response to the baby's movements and does not require fasting.
B. Place the client in a supine position: Placing the client in a left lateral position is often preferred for NST to optimize uterine blood flow and fetal oxygenation. The supine position can compromise blood flow to the uterus and is generally avoided, especially in later pregnancy.
C. Instruct the client to massage the abdomen to stimulate fetal movement: While the goal of the NST is to monitor fetal movements, instructing the client to actively stimulate fetal movement through abdominal massage is not a standard part of the procedure. Fetal movements should occur naturally.
D. Instruct the client to press the provided button each time fetal movement is detected: This is the correct action. During a nonstress test, the client is typically provided with a button to press whenever she feels fetal movement. This helps correlate fetal movements with changes in the fetal heart rate on the monitor, providing valuable information about the baby's well-being.
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