What is the primary benefit of the stress of labor to the newborn?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: During the process of labor, the stress that the newborn experiences serves as a crucial mechanism to stimulate breathing and the elimination of lung fluid. This is essential for the newborn's transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. The stress of labor helps the newborn to take their first breath, which is vital for oxygen exchange and the initiation of lung function. This process also aids in clearing the airways of amniotic fluid and other debris, ensuring proper lung expansion and function. Option B, which states that the stress of labor increases alertness and enhances parent-infant bonding, is incorrect. While the stress of labor may lead to increased alertness in the newborn due to the release of stress hormones, the primary benefit is not related to alertness or bonding but rather to physiological functions like breathing and lung fluid elimination. Option C suggests that the stress of labor speeds peristalsis to eliminate meconium quickly. However, meconium passage is more influenced by the maturity of the gastrointestinal system rather than the stress of labor. The stress of labor primarily impacts respiratory and circulatory functions rather than gastrointestinal functions. Option D states that the stress of labor enhances tolerance of microorganisms from others. While exposure to maternal microorganisms during birth can contribute to the newborn's developing immune system, the primary benefit of the stress of labor lies in respiratory adaptation rather than immune system enhancement. In conclusion, the correct answer is A because the stress of labor plays a crucial role in stimulating breathing and facilitating the elimination of lung fluid, which are essential for the newborn's transition to extrauterine life.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During the active second stage of labor, the cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters, allowing for the baby to pass through the birth canal. This is the stage where the woman experiences strong, regular contractions and has the urge to push. Therefore, assessing for dilation of the cervix is crucial in determining if the person is in the active second stage of labor. Assessing for rupture of membranes (choice A) is more relevant in the first stage of labor when the amniotic sac breaks, releasing amniotic fluid. This event typically occurs before the active stage of labor and helps to confirm that labor has begun. Assessing for bloody show (choice B) is also more indicative of the early stage of labor. Bloody show is a mixture of blood and mucus that is expelled from the cervix as it begins to soften and dilate. While it can occur in the active stage of labor, it is not a definitive sign that the woman has progressed to the second stage. Assessing for stool (choice D) is not a reliable indicator of the active second stage of labor. While some women may have a bowel movement during labor, it is not a consistent or defining characteristic of this stage. In conclusion, the correct answer is to assess for dilation of the cervix (choice C) because it is a key indicator that the person is in the active second stage of labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During the first stage of labor, which is characterized by the onset of regular contractions leading to cervical dilation, an abnormal finding would be a blood pressure of 142/88 (Choice C). This is considered abnormal because it falls outside the normal range for blood pressure, which is typically around 120/80. High blood pressure during labor can indicate conditions such as preeclampsia, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial during labor to ensure the well-being of both. Choice A, patient moaning with contractions, is not necessarily abnormal during the first stage of labor. Moaning can be a common coping mechanism for pain during labor and may not indicate any complications. Choice B, contractions 3 minutes apart lasting 60 seconds, is actually a normal finding during the first stage of labor. Contractions that are regular, increasing in frequency, duration, and intensity are expected during this stage. Choice D, a respiratory rate of 22, is also not necessarily abnormal during the first stage of labor. However, it is important to monitor respiratory rate to ensure adequate oxygenation for both the mother and the baby. An abnormal respiratory rate would typically be much higher or lower than the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute).

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: After the placenta is delivered, a decrease in blood pressure in the birthing person could indicate potential complications such as postpartum hemorrhage. This is a serious condition that requires immediate attention and intervention. Checking for possible hemorrhage should be the priority in this situation. Choice A, the birthing person being in pain, is less likely to cause a significant decrease in blood pressure after the placenta is delivered. Pain management can be addressed separately but should not be the immediate concern in this scenario. Choice B, placing the newborn skin-to-skin, is important for bonding and temperature regulation but is not directly related to addressing the birthing person's decrease in blood pressure. This action can be taken after addressing the potential hemorrhage. Choice C, the bladder being distended, could potentially cause discomfort but is not likely to be the main reason for a decrease in blood pressure after the placenta is delivered. Emptying the bladder may be necessary but is not the immediate priority. In summary, when a birthing person experiences a decrease in blood pressure after the placenta is delivered, the nurse should first check for possible hemorrhage as this could be a life-threatening complication that requires immediate attention and intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Having support people present during labor can have a significant impact on the birthing experience and outcomes. Option A states that the presence of support people will improve the experience of the birthing person. This is partially true as support people can provide emotional and physical support, but it is not the only effect. Option B suggests that the presence of support people will improve the outcomes of the birthing person. While support during labor can lead to better outcomes such as reduced labor times and decreased need for interventions, it is not the complete picture. Option D is incorrect as it states that having support people present will cause birth trauma and/or postpartum depression. This is not supported by evidence. In fact, having a supportive presence during labor has been shown to reduce the risk of postpartum depression and can help prevent birth trauma. The correct answer is C because having support people present during labor can improve both the experience and outcomes of the birthing person. Support people can provide comfort, advocacy, and encouragement, leading to a more positive birth experience. Additionally, having a supportive presence has been linked to better birth outcomes, such as lower rates of interventions and complications. Overall, having support people present during labor can have a dual benefit of improving both the experience and outcomes for the birthing person.