What is the role of a nurse in assessing a pregnant woman’s diet?

Choice A rationale
When the fetal head is at 3+ station, it means that the baby’s head has moved down the birth canal and is very close to the vaginal opening. At this stage, the nurse should observe for crowning, which is when the widest part of the baby’s head can be seen at the vaginal opening. This is a critical time during labor, and the nurse needs to be prepared for the delivery of the baby.
Choice B rationale
Applying fundal pressure is not recommended as it can cause complications such as uterine rupture, fetal distress, and maternal discomfort. It is also not necessary when the fetal head is at 3+ station as the baby is already moving down the birth canal.
Choice C rationale
Oxytocin is a hormone that can stimulate uterine contractions. However, it is not necessary to prepare to administer oxytocin when the fetal head is at 3+ station. At this stage, the mother’s body is already effectively progressing through labor.
Choice D rationale

Observing for the presence of a nuchal cord, which is when the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby’s neck, is important throughout labor. However, it is not the primary action the nurse should take when the fetal head is at 3+ station.

• Increase the oxytocin infusion to 13 mU/min: This is an anticipated action. The client’s contractions are becoming more frequent and intense, and her cervix is dilating and effacing. Increasing the oxytocin infusion can help to further progress labor.
• Place client in a side-lying position: This is an anticipated action. The side-lying position can help to improve maternal and fetal circulation and can also help to alleviate back pain.
• Initiate bolus of primary IV fluids: This is an anticipated action. The client is in labor and may not be able to consume adequate fluids orally. Providing IV fluids can help to prevent dehydration.
• Apply oxygen at 10 L/min via venturi mask: This is a nonessential action. The client’s respiratory rate and oxygen saturation are within normal limits, and she is not reporting any difficulty breathing.
• Perform sterile vaginal exam: This is an anticipated action. Regular vaginal exams are necessary to assess the progress of labor, including changes in cervical dilation, effacement, and fetal station.
• Assign a Bishop score: This is a nonessential action. The Bishop score is typically used to evaluate the readiness of the cervix for induction of labor. As the client is already in labor and her cervix is dilating and effacing, assigning a Bishop score is not necessary at this time.
• Perform an amniotomy: This is a nonessential action. An amniotomy (artificial rupture of membranes) can be used to induce or augment labor, but it is not necessary if labor is progressing normally, as it appears to be in this client. Please note that these are potential actions and the healthcare provider should be informed immediately for further evaluation and management. It’s important to continue following the provider’s prescriptions and closely monitor the client’s condition.