What is the primary goal of using an epidural for pain management during labor?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary goal of using an epidural during labor is to provide analgesia without sedation. Epidurals block pain signals, allowing the laboring individual to feel relief while remaining fully conscious. This helps manage labor pain effectively without causing sedation, allowing the individual to actively participate in the birthing process. Choice B is incorrect because epidurals can limit movement and positioning due to numbness. Choice C is incorrect as the main purpose is pain relief, not anxiety relief. Choice D is incorrect as continuous monitoring can be achieved through other methods, and it is not the primary goal of using an epidural.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: prepare for spontaneous delivery. During the pushing phase of the second stage of labor, the most appropriate nursing intervention is to prepare for the spontaneous delivery of the baby. This involves ensuring that all necessary equipment and supplies are ready for the delivery, positioning oneself appropriately to assist with the birth, and being prepared to provide immediate care to the newborn. This intervention is crucial to ensure a safe and smooth delivery process. Choice A (assist the person into a squatting position) may not be appropriate for all laboring individuals and may not facilitate the most effective pushing efforts. Choice B (instruct the person to push with contractions) is a general instruction that may not encompass all the necessary aspects of supporting the delivery process. Choice C (coach the person through controlled pushing) may be too restrictive and not allow for the natural progression of labor. Thus, the most appropriate intervention is to prepare for spontaneous delivery to ensure readiness and safety for both the laboring person and the newborn.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: to monitor maternal vital signs. During labor, monitoring maternal vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation is crucial to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Changes in these vital signs can indicate potential complications that may require immediate intervention. Fetal heart rate variability (A) is important but not the primary purpose of using a fetal monitor. Monitoring for fetal distress (B) is indeed important, but the primary purpose is to ensure the mother's health. Assessing the mother's emotional state (D) is not the primary reason for using a fetal monitor during labor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: encourage ambulation. Walking during the first stage of labor can help facilitate the descent of the fetus, promote optimal positioning, and enhance comfort by utilizing gravity to aid in the progression of labor. Ambulation also encourages blood circulation and may provide a distraction from discomfort. Administering pain medication (B) is not the initial intervention in promoting relaxation and comfort during early labor. Providing distraction and breathing techniques (C) may be beneficial, but ambulation is more effective in promoting relaxation. Offering relaxation techniques (D) is helpful, but encouraging movement through ambulation is a more active approach in easing discomfort and promoting relaxation during the first stage of labor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: notify the healthcare provider. This is the most appropriate action because the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid indicates potential fetal distress, requiring immediate medical evaluation. Notifying the healthcare provider allows for prompt assessment and necessary interventions to ensure the well-being of both the laboring person and the baby. Documenting the amount of meconium (choice B) may be important for the medical record but is not the priority in this situation. Choices C and D, preparing for vacuum extraction and applying pressure to the abdomen, are not indicated and could potentially harm the baby or the laboring person.