What changes in hormones initiate labor?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because during labor, progesterone levels decrease, estrogen levels increase, and oxytocin plays a key role in initiating contractions. Progesterone inhibits contractions, so its decrease is necessary for labor to start. Estrogen helps stimulate uterine contractions. Oxytocin, released from the brain, triggers and enhances contractions. Option A is incorrect because an absence of oxytocin would not initiate labor. Option B is incorrect because increased progesterone would inhibit labor. Option C is incorrect because oxytocin is needed to initiate labor.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it addresses the potential strains on relationships that can occur after the birth of a child. New parents often experience changes in their relationship dynamics due to increased responsibilities, sleep deprivation, and shifts in priorities. By preparing them for these possible strains, the nurse can help them navigate these challenges effectively. A is incorrect because roles often do change at home with the arrival of a newborn. B is incorrect as stresses can actually increase after the baby is born. C is incorrect as it dismisses the importance of addressing household changes and potential stressors.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because patients who experienced a support ban during the pandemic were more likely to experience depression due to the lack of emotional and physical support during labor. This is supported by research showing the negative impact of isolation on mental health. Choices A and B are incorrect as labor support can come from various sources, not just the significant other, and patients benefit from support during labor. Choice C is incorrect as pandemic requirements did impact birth outcomes, such as increased stress and anxiety levels.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Maternal circulating blood volume increases temporarily during contractions. 1. During contractions, the uterus contracts, temporarily reducing blood flow to the placenta and increasing blood volume in the maternal circulation. 2. This temporary increase in blood volume can affect vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate. 3. Assessing maternal vital signs between contractions provides a more accurate baseline reading. 4. Choice A is incorrect because vital signs taken during contractions may be affected by the temporary increase in blood volume. 5. Choice B is incorrect as assessing fetal heart rate is a separate priority and not directly related to maternal vital signs. 6. Choice C is incorrect as maternal blood flow to the heart is not reduced during contractions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Increased blood volume. During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases by about 30-50% to support the growing fetus and prepare for potential blood loss during childbirth. This increased blood volume helps pregnant patients tolerate the normal blood loss associated with childbirth without experiencing severe complications like hypovolemic shock. Rationale: A: A higher hematocrit would not directly contribute to increased blood volume and would not help in tolerating blood loss during childbirth. B: Increased leukocytes are part of the immune response and are not directly related to blood volume or tolerance to blood loss. D: A lower fibrinogen level would not directly contribute to increased blood volume and would not help in tolerating blood loss during childbirth. Summary: Choice C is correct because increased blood volume is a crucial physiologic adaptation during pregnancy that enables pregnant patients to tolerate the normal blood loss associated with childbirth. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they are not directly related to this