What is the term for a slow, deep inhalation through the nose and exhalation through the mouth?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Cleansing breath is the correct answer because it specifically refers to a slow, deep inhalation through the nose and exhalation through the mouth. This type of breathing technique is often used in practices like yoga and meditation to help release tension, calm the mind, and improve focus. By taking in a deep breath through the nose, you are able to fully oxygenate your body and then release any built-up stress or negativity as you exhale through the mouth. Pursed-lip breathing (choice A) involves inhaling through the nose and exhaling through pursed lips, which can help improve breathing efficiency and decrease shortness of breath. However, this technique does not specifically involve a deep inhalation through the nose and exhalation through the mouth as described in the question. Panting (choice B) is a rapid, shallow form of breathing often associated with dogs or individuals experiencing panic or anxiety. This type of breathing is not conducive to relaxation or stress relief, as it can actually increase feelings of anxiety and hyperventilation. Chanting (choice C) involves repeating a word or phrase rhythmically while breathing normally. This practice is often used in meditation or spiritual practices to focus the mind and create a sense of calm, but it does not specifically involve the slow, deep inhalation through the nose and exhalation through the mouth as described in the question.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nitrous oxide is a commonly used analgesic during labor and delivery. The correct answer is C because nitrous oxide does not affect respiration as an opiate would. This is because nitrous oxide is a gas that is inhaled through a mask, and it works quickly to provide pain relief without affecting the respiratory system. Choice A is incorrect because nitrous oxide does not cause respiratory depression in the newborn. In fact, nitrous oxide is quickly eliminated from the body, so it does not accumulate in the newborn's system to cause respiratory depression. Choice B is incorrect because nitrous oxide does not cause the laboring person to have decreased respirations. Nitrous oxide is a self-administered analgesic, which means that the laboring person controls when and how much they inhale. This allows them to maintain normal breathing patterns throughout labor. Choice D is incorrect because the mask used to administer nitrous oxide is typically held by the laboring person themselves, not by their partner. This allows the laboring person to have control over when and how much nitrous oxide they inhale, which is an important aspect of its effectiveness as an analgesic during labor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: IV fluid bolus is the correct answer because it helps increase blood volume and preload, which can prevent or correct hypotension during epidural placement. When a person receives an epidural, their blood pressure can drop due to vasodilation caused by the medication. Providing a fluid bolus before the procedure helps maintain adequate circulating volume and blood pressure. Routine use of ephedrine (Choice A) is not recommended because it is a vasoconstrictor that can increase blood pressure. In the case of epidural placement, ephedrine may worsen hypertension and increase the risk of adverse effects. Insertion of an indwelling urinary catheter (Choice C) is not directly related to reducing hypotension before epidural placement. While maintaining proper bladder function is important during labor and delivery, it does not specifically address the issue of hypotension associated with epidural placement. Upright positioning of the laboring person (Choice D) may be helpful in preventing supine hypotensive syndrome, where pressure on the inferior vena cava can lead to decreased blood return to the heart. However, this is more relevant during labor and not specifically before epidural placement. Providing IV fluids is a more direct and effective intervention to address hypotension in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A vaginal exam is the most appropriate procedure for determining the presentation of the fetus. During a vaginal exam, the nurse can physically feel the position of the fetus in the uterus, including whether it is in a cephalic (head down), breech (feet or buttocks down), or transverse (sideways) position. This information is crucial for determining the safest delivery method and monitoring the progress of labor. Ultrasound, while useful for assessing fetal position and presentation, may not always provide the most accurate information, especially in cases where the fetus is in a difficult position to visualize. It is a valuable tool for confirming findings from a vaginal exam but should not be solely relied upon for determining presentation. Palpation of contractions can help assess the strength and frequency of contractions during labor but does not provide information on the fetal presentation. It is important for monitoring labor progress and identifying any issues with uterine contractions but does not assist in determining the fetus's position. A laboring person interview is essential for gathering information about the laboring person's medical history, preferences, and any concerns they may have. While this information is important for providing individualized care, it does not directly assist in determining the presentation of the fetus. Physical examination such as a vaginal exam is necessary for this purpose.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During the second stage of labor, which is the pushing stage, the main focus is on the progress of fetal descent and the strength of contractions. A: Fetal heart rate monitoring is typically done throughout labor, not just during the second stage. It is important to monitor the baby's heart rate to ensure they are handling labor well, but it is not specific to the second stage. B: Fetal descent refers to the movement of the baby through the birth canal. This is a key indicator of progress during the second stage of labor and is typically monitored closely by healthcare providers. C: Bearing-down effort is the mother's pushing during the second stage of labor. While this is an important aspect of the second stage, it is not data that is collected but rather an action taken by the mother. D: Contraction strength is crucial during the second stage of labor as strong, effective contractions help move the baby down the birth canal. Monitoring the strength and frequency of contractions is essential in ensuring progress and a successful delivery. In conclusion, while all of these factors are important during the second stage of labor, the data specifically collected during this stage is the strength of contractions to ensure the baby is progressing through the birth canal effectively.