ATI RN
labor and delivery nclex questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Uncontrolled maternal hyperventilation during labor results in
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Uncontrolled maternal hyperventilation during labor leads to excessive elimination of carbon dioxide, causing a decrease in the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2). This results in respiratory alkalosis, as the pH of the blood increases due to a decrease in PaCO2. Metabolic acidosis (Option A) would be associated with conditions such as lactic acidosis, while metabolic alkalosis (Option B) would involve excessive loss of acid or gain of base, but in this case, the primary effect is on the respiratory system. Respiratory acidosis (Option C) would be characterized by an increase in PaCO2 leading to a decrease in pH, which is the opposite of what occurs in maternal hyperventilation.
Question 2 of 5
An increase in urinary frequency and leg cramps after the 36th week of pregnancy are an indication of
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: An increase in urinary frequency and leg cramps after the 36th week of pregnancy are common signs of "lightening." Lightening refers to the descent of the baby into the pelvis in preparation for labor. This shift in position can put pressure on the bladder, leading to increased urinary frequency. Additionally, the pressure on nerves and blood vessels in the pelvis can cause leg cramps. These symptoms are typically experienced in the final weeks of pregnancy and are considered normal signs that the body is preparing for labor.
Question 3 of 5
A laboring patient asks the nurse how she will know that the contraction is at its peak. The nurse explains that the contraction peaks during which stage of measurement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The peak of a contraction, also known as its highest point or intensity, is referred to as the acme. This is the stage during which the contraction reaches its maximum strength before gradually subsiding. By identifying the acme of the contraction, healthcare providers can better gauge the progress of labor and assess the intensity of contractions to determine the appropriate course of action for the laboring patient.
Question 4 of 5
Which maternal factor may inhibit fetal descent during labor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A full bladder can inhibit fetal descent during labor by obstructing the pathway for the baby to descend through the birth canal. A distended bladder can physically block the baby's head from moving down and putting pressure on the cervix, which is necessary for the progress of labor. It is important for pregnant individuals to empty their bladder regularly during labor to optimize the conditions for fetal descent and facilitate a smoother delivery process.
Question 5 of 5
Which assessment finding indicates that cervical dilation and/or effacement has occurred?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Bloody mucus drainage from the vagina, also known as "bloody show," is a common sign that indicates cervical dilation and/or effacement has occurred in anticipation of labor. This occurs as the mucus plug, which seals the cervix during pregnancy, is released as the cervix begins to soften, dilate, and efface in preparation for childbirth. This physical change in the cervix is a significant indicator that labor is approaching. The other options listed do not directly indicate cervical changes associated with labor progression like the presence of bloody mucus drainage does.