Which phase of labor is the woman likely in if she is breathing rapidly with contractions?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: If a woman is breathing rapidly with contractions, she is likely in the active phase of labor. During the active phase, contractions become more intense, frequent, and longer in duration. This increased intensity of contractions can cause the woman to breathe rapidly in order to cope with the pain and discomfort. The active phase typically occurs when the cervix is around 4-7 cm dilated. The latent phase (choice A) is the early stage of labor where contractions are mild and irregular. Women in this phase typically have more time between contractions and are able to cope with the discomfort without rapid breathing. The transition phase (choice C) is the most intense phase of labor where the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm). Contractions are very strong, close together, and can cause the woman to feel overwhelmed. While rapid breathing may occur during this phase, the description in the question fits better with the active phase. Choice D, showing signs of hypoxia and/or hypercapnia, is incorrect because rapid breathing during labor is a normal physiological response to intense contractions and is not necessarily indicative of respiratory distress. Hypoxia and hypercapnia would present with additional symptoms such as shortness of breath, cyanosis, confusion, and altered mental status.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During labor, the position of the baby can greatly impact the mother's experience. In this scenario, the correct answer is C: Occiput posterior. When the baby's occiput (back of the head) is facing the mother's back, it is known as occiput posterior position. In this position, the baby's head is pressing against the mother's sacrum, which can cause intense back pain for the mother during labor. Choice A: Mentum anterior is not the correct answer because this refers to the baby's chin being positioned towards the mother's front. This position typically does not cause severe back pain for the mother. Choice B: Sacral posterior is incorrect as this would mean the baby's back is facing the mother's back. While this position can cause back labor, it is not typically associated with severe back pain. Choice D: Scapula anterior is also incorrect as this refers to the baby's shoulder being positioned towards the mother's front. While this position can cause some discomfort during labor, it is not likely to result in severe back pain for the mother. In summary, the correct answer is C: Occiput posterior because when the baby's head is pressing against the mother's sacrum in this position, it can lead to significant back pain during labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: C) Muscle relaxation is an integral part of Lamaze childbirth education because it helps women manage pain and stress during labor. Lamaze focuses on teaching women to relax their muscles to reduce tension and discomfort, ultimately leading to a more comfortable birthing experience. Muscle relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation, are commonly used in Lamaze classes to prepare women for childbirth. A) Hypnotic suggestion is not typically a part of Lamaze childbirth education. While some women may choose to use hypnosis as a pain management technique during labor, it is not a core component of the Lamaze method. Lamaze primarily focuses on natural coping strategies, like breathing and relaxation techniques, rather than hypnosis. B) Rhythmic chanting is also not a key component of Lamaze childbirth education. While some women may find chanting or vocalizing helpful during labor, it is not a standard practice taught in Lamaze classes. The focus is more on breathing techniques and muscle relaxation to help manage pain and stress during childbirth. D) Pelvic rocking is not a central technique in Lamaze childbirth education. While movement and positioning are important during labor, pelvic rocking specifically is not a core component of the Lamaze method. Lamaze classes may teach various positions and movements to help women cope with labor pain, but pelvic rocking is not typically emphasized.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: If a laboring woman becomes light-headed and tachypneic, it is essential for the nurse to address the potential hyperventilation that may be causing these symptoms. Choice A: Checking the blood pressure is not the most appropriate action in this situation. While it is important to monitor blood pressure during labor, it is not the priority when a woman is experiencing light-headedness and tachypnea. Choice C: Moving the woman to her side is a common intervention for improving blood flow and oxygenation to the fetus, but it does not directly address the woman's symptoms of light-headedness and tachypnea. Choice D: Assessing the fetal heart rate is important during labor, but it is not the priority when the woman is experiencing symptoms that suggest hyperventilation. The correct answer is B: Having the woman rebreathe her exhalations. This technique helps to increase her carbon dioxide levels and decrease her respiratory rate, addressing the underlying cause of her symptoms. By having the woman rebreathe her exhalations, the nurse can help restore the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in her body, alleviating her light-headedness and tachypnea.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Maintaining the woman's privacy during the second stage of labor is the correct answer because it is essential for promoting a sense of dignity and comfort during a vulnerable and intense time. Option A, providing a bedpan, is incorrect because it is not necessary if the woman is sleeping between contractions. She should be allowed to rest comfortably without unnecessary interruptions. Option C, assessing vital signs, is also incorrect in this scenario. While monitoring vital signs is important during labor, if the woman is sleeping between contractions, it is likely that her vital signs are stable. Option D, administering oxygen, is unnecessary if the woman is sleeping between contractions and her vital signs are stable. Oxygen administration is typically indicated for specific situations such as fetal distress or maternal hypoxia. In conclusion, maintaining the woman's privacy allows her to rest and conserve energy during the second stage of labor, promoting a positive birthing experience.