OB NCLEX Questions And Answers Intrapartum 2022/2023

When caring for a client in the first stage of labor, the nurse documents cervical dilation of 9 cm and intense contractions lasting 45 to 60 seconds and occurring about every 2 minutes. Based on these findings, the nurse should recognize that the client is in which phase of labor? 1. Active phase 2. Latent phase 3. Descent phase 4. Transitional phase - Answer - 4 RATIONALES: In the transitional phase, the cervix dilates from 8 to 10 cm, and intense contractions occur every 1½ to 2 minutes and last for 45 to 90 seconds. In the active phase, the cervix dilates from 5 to 7 cm, and moderate contractions progress to strong contractions that last 60 seconds. In the latent phase, the cervix dilates 3 to 4 cm, and contractions are short, irregular, and mild. No descent phase exists. (Fetal descent may begin several weeks before labor but usually doesn't occur until the second stage of labor.) During labor, a client asks the nurse why her blood pressure must be measured so often. Which explanation should the nurse provide? 1. Blood pressure reflects changes in cardiovascular function, which may affect the fetus. 2. Increased blood pressure indicates that the client is experiencing pain. 3. Increased blood pressure signals the peak of the contraction. 4. Medications given during labor affect blood pressure. - Answer - Answer: 1 RATIONALES: Frequent blood pressure measurement helps determine whether maternal cardiovascular function is adequate. During contractions, blood flow to the intervillous spaces changes, compromising fetal blood supply. Increased blood pressure is expected during pain and contractions. Measuring blood pressure frequently helps determine whether blood pressure has returned to precontrac