In a low-risk laboring person who is not receiving oxytocin, how often should the nurse assess the fetal heart rate during the second stage of labor?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: every 5-15 minutes. During the second stage of labor, frequent assessment of the fetal heart rate is crucial to monitor fetal well-being and detect any signs of distress promptly. Assessing every 5-15 minutes allows the nurse to closely monitor the fetal heart rate pattern and response to uterine contractions, ensuring timely interventions if needed. Option A (every 5 minutes with contractions) may be too frequent and unnecessary, causing patient discomfort. Option B (at least every 30 minutes) is too infrequent and may miss important changes in fetal status. Option D (only when the physician orders assessment) is incorrect as nurses should proactively monitor fetal well-being without waiting for physician orders.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The purpose of Leopold's maneuver in labor and delivery is to assess fetal presentation and position. Step 1 evaluates the fundal grip to determine the fetal part. Step 2 assesses the sides of the abdomen to identify the fetal back. Step 3 determines the presenting part and position. Step 4 confirms the presenting part and its mobility. This systematic approach helps determine the position of the fetus in the uterus. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific purpose of Leopold's maneuver, which is primarily focused on assessing fetal presentation and position.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the primary purpose of performing a vaginal examination during labor is to assess fetal well-being and progress of labor. By conducting a vaginal exam, healthcare providers can monitor the fetal heart rate, position, and stage of labor. This information helps determine if the labor is progressing normally and if any interventions are needed. Choice A is incorrect because cervical dilation and effacement can be assessed but are not the primary purpose. Choice C is incorrect as fetal distress is typically identified through other methods such as continuous fetal monitoring. Choice D is incorrect as assessing fetal descent and station can be done through vaginal examination but is not the primary purpose.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: bradycardia. Fetal distress is often indicated by a decreased fetal heart rate (bradycardia), which can be a sign of inadequate oxygenation. Bradycardia is a serious concern in labor and requires immediate intervention. Tachycardia (B) is an increased heart rate, which can indicate fetal distress but is not as specific as bradycardia. Late decelerations (C) are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, not necessarily fetal distress. Variable decelerations (D) are often related to cord compression and can be a sign of fetal distress, but bradycardia is a more direct indicator.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: administer uterotonics. Uterotonics help to contract the uterus, which can help stop the bleeding in postpartum hemorrhage. This is the initial step in managing postpartum hemorrhage to address the primary cause of excessive bleeding. Administering IV fluids (B) can support circulation but does not address the underlying issue. Performing manual removal of the placenta (C) is invasive and not the first-line treatment for postpartum hemorrhage. Monitoring vital signs (D) is important but should not delay the immediate intervention of administering uterotonics.