What is the primary purpose of performing a vaginal examination during labor?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because the primary purpose of performing a vaginal examination during labor is to assess fetal well-being and progress of labor. By conducting a vaginal exam, healthcare providers can monitor the fetal heart rate, position, and stage of labor. This information helps determine if the labor is progressing normally and if any interventions are needed. Choice A is incorrect because cervical dilation and effacement can be assessed but are not the primary purpose. Choice C is incorrect as fetal distress is typically identified through other methods such as continuous fetal monitoring. Choice D is incorrect as assessing fetal descent and station can be done through vaginal examination but is not the primary purpose.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: administer uterotonics. Uterotonics help to contract the uterus, which can help stop the bleeding in postpartum hemorrhage. This is the initial step in managing postpartum hemorrhage to address the primary cause of excessive bleeding. Administering IV fluids (B) can support circulation but does not address the underlying issue. Performing manual removal of the placenta (C) is invasive and not the first-line treatment for postpartum hemorrhage. Monitoring vital signs (D) is important but should not delay the immediate intervention of administering uterotonics.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: encourage skin-to-skin contact. Skin-to-skin contact in the early postpartum period promotes bonding, regulates the baby's body temperature, and encourages successful breastfeeding by stimulating the baby's natural feeding instincts. It also helps in establishing a strong emotional connection between the parent and the newborn. Encouraging frequent feeding (choice A) is important, but skin-to-skin contact is crucial for successful breastfeeding initiation. Supporting the baby's latch (choice C) is essential, but skin-to-skin contact precedes and aids in achieving a proper latch. While supporting early initiation of breastfeeding (choice D) is beneficial, skin-to-skin contact enhances the initiation process and overall breastfeeding success.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Late decelerations. Late decelerations indicate uteroplacental insufficiency, which can lead to fetal hypoxia and distress. This is the most concerning finding as it indicates a problem with oxygen delivery to the fetus. Bradycardia (B) and Tachycardia (C) can also be concerning, but late decelerations are more specific to fetal distress. Variable decelerations (D) are caused by cord compression and are concerning but not as indicative of fetal distress as late decelerations.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: assist with the delivery of the placenta. During the third stage of labor, the placenta needs to be delivered. This is done by gently applying traction to the umbilical cord while supporting the uterus to facilitate the expulsion of the placenta. This step is crucial to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. Choice B (prepare for a vaginal birth) is incorrect because the person is already in the third stage of labor, which means the baby has been delivered and they are now focusing on delivering the placenta. Choice C (administer oxytocin) is incorrect because while oxytocin may be used to help control bleeding after the placenta is delivered, it is not the most appropriate intervention during the third stage of labor. Choice D (apply gentle pressure to the uterus) is incorrect because direct pressure to the uterus is not the primary intervention during the third stage of labor; assisting with the delivery of the placenta takes precedence.