The nurse is assessing a client who has been admitted in active labor.
The cervix is dilated to 3 cm, 50% effaced, and the presenting part is at 0 station. An hour later, the client informs the nurse that she needs to use the restroom.
What should be the nurse’s first course of action?
Review the pattern of the fetal heart rate.
Check the client’s bladder.
Determine the dilation of the cervix.
Test the pH of the vaginal fluid.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C.
Choice A rationale: Reviewing the pattern of the fetal heart rate is important but not the immediate first step when a client in active labor needs to use the restroom. The nurse should first assess the progress of labor.
Choice B rationale: Checking the client's bladder is necessary, especially if the bladder is full, as it can affect labor progress. However, the priority is to assess the cervix first to ensure the client is not in an advanced stage of labor before addressing bladder concerns.
Choice C rationale: Determining the dilation of the cervix is crucial. The need to use the restroom may indicate increased pressure from the presenting part of the fetus, suggesting rapid labor progression. This assessment will help determine if it is safe for the client to ambulate to the restroom or if other immediate actions are needed.
Choice D rationale: Testing the pH of the vaginal fluid can be part of assessing for the presence of amniotic fluid, but it is not the first step when a client in active labor expresses the need to use the restroom. Cervical assessment takes priority in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Unilateral lower leg pain is not a normal finding postpartum and could indicate a deep vein thrombosis, which requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
A soft, spongy fundus is not a normal finding postpartum. The uterus should be firm to prevent excessive bleeding.
Choice C rationale
A pulse rate of 56 beats/minute can be a normal finding postpartum. Pregnancy increases blood volume and cardiac output, and these changes can persist for some time after delivery.
Choice D rationale
Saturating two perineal pads per hour is not a normal finding postpartum and could indicate excessive bleeding.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Return of lochia rubra, or bright red bleeding, is not a sign of postpartum depression. It is a normal part of the postpartum period and can last for several weeks after childbirth.
Choice B rationale
Engorged, painful breasts can be a sign of breastfeeding complications, but they are not a sign of postpartum depression. They are a common experience for many women as their milk comes in after childbirth.
Choice C rationale
Difficulty falling asleep, even when the baby is sleeping, can be a sign of postpartum depression. Sleep disturbances are common among women with postpartum depression.
Choice D rationale
Decreased appetite can be a sign of postpartum depression. Changes in eating habits, such as eating too little or too much, are common symptoms of depression.
Choice E rationale
Feelings of sadness that last for more than two weeks after childbirth can be a sign of postpartum depression. While many women experience “baby blues” in the first few weeks after childbirth, prolonged feelings of sadness can indicate a more serious issue.
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