Utilize the GTPAL system to classify a woman who is currently 18 weeks pregnant.
This is her 4th pregnancy.
She gave birth to one baby vaginally at 26 weeks who died, experienced a miscarriage, and has one living child who was delivered at 38 weeks gestation.

The correct answer is choice A.

Choice A rationale:

Evaluating the firmness of the uterus (fundus) is the first action the nurse should take when a client’s blood pressure drops postpartum. A soft or “boggy” uterus can indicate uterine atony, a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage, which can lead to hypotension.

Choice B rationale:

Obtaining a type and crossmatch is important if the client needs a blood transfusion, but it is not the first action the nurse should take.

Choice C rationale:

Administering oxytocin infusion can help contract the uterus and control bleeding, but the nurse should first assess the uterus.

Choice D rationale:

Initiating oxygen therapy can help if the client is hypoxic, but the nurse should first assess the uterus.

The correct answer is choice D.

Choice A rationale:

While oxytocin sensitivity is important for labor, there is no evidence to suggest that Braxton Hicks contractions increase oxytocin sensitivity.

Choice B rationale:

Prostaglandins play a crucial role in labor by causing the cervix to soften and dilate and the uterus to contract. However, there is no evidence to suggest that Braxton Hicks contractions increase the release of prostaglandins.

Choice C rationale:

While maternal comfort is important during labor, there is no evidence to suggest that Braxton Hicks contractions make maternal breathing easier.

Choice D rationale:

Braxton Hicks contractions help in softening and ripening the cervix, which is an important part of preparing for labor.