A nurse is assessing a client who is in active labor. The client reports back labor pains.
Which of the following nonpharmacological interventions should the nurse provide to manage the client's pain?
Teach the client patterned breathing techniques.
Encourage the support person to perform effleurage.
Encourage the support person to apply sacral counterpressure.
Teach the client to use guided imagery.
Teach the client to use guided imagery.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Patterned breathing techniques can help in managing pain by focusing on controlled breathing, reducing anxiety, and providing a distraction from the pain, but are not specifically targeting back labor pains.
Choice B rationale
Effleurage involves light circular strokes on the abdomen and can help in managing general labor pain, but may not be as effective specifically for back labor pains.
Choice C rationale
Sacral counterpressure involves applying steady pressure to the sacral area, which can help relieve pain caused by back labor by counteracting the discomfort experienced in this
area.
Choice D rationale
Guided imagery involves using mental visualization to distract from pain and promote relaxation, but may not be as effective in relieving the specific pain associated with back labor.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
-
Preterm Labor Risk: At 32 weeks of gestation, regular contractions every 5 minutes could indicate the onset of preterm labor. This is concerning because preterm labor can lead to preterm birth, which poses significant risks to the baby's health and development.
-
Frequency and Intensity: These contractions are occurring frequently (every 5 minutes) and are described as stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions. This frequency and the strength of the contractions are unusual for Braxton Hicks, which are typically irregular and less intense.
-
Effacement and Cervical Changes: Although the cervix is closed, it is 80% effaced. Effacement means the cervix is thinning, which, in combination with regular contractions, may indicate that the body is preparing for labor.
-
Urinary Leakage: The client also reported urinary leakage earlier in the day, which could be a sign of ruptured membranes (water breaking). This, combined with regular contractions, increases the need for careful monitoring.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Leukorrhea is a common and normal occurrence in pregnancy due to increased estrogen production and greater blood flow to the vaginal area. It is usually a thin, white discharge and not a cause for concern unless accompanied by itching, burning, or an unusual odor.
Choice B rationale
Excessive salivation, also known as ptyalism, can occur during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. It is linked to hormonal changes and is not typically harmful, though it may be uncomfortable for the patient.
Choice C rationale
Darkening of the skin on the face, known as melasma or chloasma, is common during pregnancy and is due to increased pigmentation from hormonal changes. It typically resolves postpartum and is not harmful.
Choice D rationale
Epigastric pain in a pregnant client at 33 weeks gestation can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organs. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications for both the mother and baby.