The nursing instructor is leading a discussion on the physical changes to a woman's body after the delivery of the baby.

The instructor determines the session is successful after the students correctly point out which process results in the return of nonpregnant size and function of the female organs?

Choice A reason:
Placing traction weights so they touch the head of the bed disrupts the effectiveness of the traction system. Skeletal traction relies on a continuous pulling force to maintain proper alignment of the fractured femur. If the weights are resting on any surface, the force is interrupted, which can lead to complications such as malunion or delayed healing. The weights must hang freely at all times to ensure therapeutic benefit.

Choice B reason:
Isometric exercises are beneficial for maintaining muscle tone and promoting circulation during immobilization. However, while this is a supportive intervention, it is not the most critical or immediate nursing action in the context of skeletal traction. Encouraging exercises every 8 hours is appropriate, but it does not directly address the most urgent or discomfort-related aspect of care.

Choice C reason:
Pin care is a routine but potentially painful procedure associated with skeletal traction. Administering pain medication beforehand is a priority nursing action because it ensures client comfort, reduces anxiety, and promotes cooperation during the procedure. This intervention reflects both compassionate care and adherence to best practices in pain management and infection prevention.

Choice D reason:
Repositioning a client in skeletal traction must be done with extreme caution to avoid disrupting the traction setup. Assisting the client to shift position every 4 hours may inadvertently alter the alignment or tension of the traction apparatus. While pressure injury prevention is important, repositioning must be coordinated carefully and is not the most appropriate standalone action in this context.

This is a sign of uterine hyperstimulation, which can cause fetal distress and excessive bleeding12.
The nurse should report this finding to the provider and monitor the fetal heart rate and maternal vital signs.
Choice B.
Early decelerations in the FHR are incorrect, as this is a normal finding during the second stage of labor, indicating head compression.
Choice C.

Pelvic pressure with contractions is incorrect, as this is an expected finding during the second stage of labor, indicating that the baby is descending through the birth canal.
Choice D.
Bloody show from the vagina is incorrect, as this is also an expected finding during the second stage of labor, indicating cervical dilation and effacement13.
Therefore, choice A is the best answer.