The nurse is teaching a prenatal class about labor. What statement indicates understanding?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: True labor contractions become progressively stronger and lead to cervical dilation and effacement.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida during early fetal development.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to perform first when observing the umbilical cord protruding from the vagina during the first stage of labor is to insert a gloved hand into the vagina to relieve pressure on the cord. This is crucial to prevent compression of the cord, which could compromise oxygenation to the fetus. By gently lifting the presenting part off the cord, the nurse can help maintain blood flow and prevent fetal distress. Once the pressure on the cord is relieved, additional interventions such as preparing the client for immediate birth, covering the cord with a sterile, moist saline dressing, or positioning the client in knee-chest position may be necessary depending on the clinical situation. But the priority is to relieve pressure on the umbilical cord promptly to ensure the well-being of the fetus.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Headache and vision changes can signal worsening preeclampsia, requiring prompt medical attention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A. Prostaglandin E2: Prostaglandin E2 is used to manage preterm labor by helping to ripen the cervix and promote contractions.