Which nursing diagnosis would take priority in the care of a primipara patient with no visible support person in attendance? The patient has entered the second stage of labor after a first stage of labor lasting 4 hours.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fluid volume deficit (FV) related to fluid loss during labor and birth process. This diagnosis takes priority because dehydration can lead to serious complications for the mother and the baby. Inadequate fluid intake during labor can result in decreased blood volume, affecting both maternal and fetal circulation. This can lead to fetal distress and maternal hypotension. Choice B, fatigue related to length of labor, is important but not as critical as fluid volume deficit, as addressing dehydration is more urgent to prevent complications. Choice C, acute pain related to increased intensity of contractions, is also important but can be managed with pain relief measures, whereas fluid volume deficit requires immediate action. Therefore, it is not the priority at this moment. In summary, addressing fluid volume deficit is the priority as it directly impacts the well-being of both the mother and the baby during labor and birth, while the other options can be addressed once the dehydration issue is resolved.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 20-gauge. During active labor, a larger IV cannula is recommended to accommodate rapid fluid administration and potential blood loss. A 20-gauge cannula provides a good balance between flow rate and patient comfort. An 18-gauge cannula (choice A) may be too large and cause discomfort, while 22-gauge (choice C) and 24-gauge (choice D) may not allow for adequate fluid administration in a timely manner.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Edema and discoloration of the labia and perineum indicate the presence of a potential vaginal wall hematoma. This is because hematoma can cause swelling and bruising in the affected area. Bright red lochia and a firm fundus are more indicative of postpartum hemorrhage, not vaginal wall hematoma. Choices A and C are not directly related to the presence of a vaginal wall hematoma. Mild, intermittent perineal pain (Choice B) is non-specific and can be present in various postpartum conditions. Thus, option D is the most relevant indicator of a potential vaginal wall hematoma in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: maternal exhaustion. Vacuum extraction may be indicated when the mother is too exhausted to continue pushing, as it can assist in the delivery process. A wide pelvic outlet (choice A) may facilitate delivery but is not a specific indication for vacuum extraction. A history of rapid deliveries (choice C) does not necessarily require vacuum extraction. Failure to progress past 0 station (choice D) may indicate other interventions like cesarean section rather than vacuum extraction. Therefore, the most appropriate indication for vacuum extraction in this scenario is maternal exhaustion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct action is to assess the infant for signs of trauma (Choice A) because forceps-assisted birth can increase the risk of injury to the infant. By assessing for signs of trauma promptly, the nurse can identify any potential issues and initiate necessary interventions. Choice B is incorrect because measuring the circumference of the infant's head is not necessary immediately after forceps-assisted birth. Choice C is incorrect as applying a cold pack to the infant's scalp is not indicated unless there is a specific medical reason for it. Choice D is incorrect because giving prophylactic antibiotics to the infant is not a standard practice following forceps-assisted birth unless there is a specific indication for infection prevention.