What is the purpose of administering magnesium sulfate during preterm labor?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: to reduce the risk of seizures and cerebral hemorrhage. Magnesium sulfate is used during preterm labor to prevent and treat seizures in women with preeclampsia and eclampsia. It acts as a neuroprotective agent by preventing cerebral vasoconstriction and reducing the risk of cerebral hemorrhage. The other choices are incorrect because magnesium sulfate does not primarily relax the uterus to prevent contractions (A), improve fetal oxygenation (B), or decrease blood pressure (D) during preterm labor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Progressive cervical dilation. This is the most reliable indicator of the active phase of labor because it directly reflects the opening of the cervix, indicating that labor is advancing. Cervical dilation is a key aspect of labor progress and is used to determine the stage of labor. Frequent, regular contractions (choice B) are important but can occur in early labor as well. Fetal descent (choice C) is an important aspect but may happen in conjunction with cervical dilation. Effacement of the cervix (choice D) is also important but does not solely indicate the active phase of labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, bradycardia. Bradycardia in the fetal heart rate is a significant finding indicating fetal distress because it signifies a heart rate below normal range, which can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to the fetus. Bradycardia can be a sign of fetal hypoxia, acidosis, or other serious conditions. Variable decelerations (choice A) are often caused by umbilical cord compression, late decelerations (choice B) are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, and accelerations (choice D) are considered a reassuring sign of fetal well-being. Therefore, in the context of fetal distress, bradycardia is the most concerning finding.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: apply oxygen via mask. This is the primary nursing action for a ruptured uterus because it helps improve oxygenation to the laboring person and the fetus. Ruptured uterus can lead to a significant decrease in oxygen supply, so providing oxygen is crucial. Incorrect choices: A: preparing for an emergency cesarean section is important but not the primary action in this situation. B: providing pain relief is important, but ensuring oxygenation is a higher priority. D: applying pressure to the abdomen is not recommended as it can worsen the condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: encourage the person to use a peri-bottle. This is crucial for maintaining perineal hygiene and preventing infection after childbirth. Using a peri-bottle helps keep the perineal area clean without causing irritation. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: B: Educating on wound care is important but not the most critical teaching point as keeping the area clean with a peri-bottle is the priority. C: Kegel exercises are beneficial for pelvic floor muscles but are not directly related to perineal care. D: Avoiding tampons is important to prevent infection, but using a peri-bottle for hygiene is more immediate and necessary postpartum.