ATI RN
Promoting patient comfort during labor and birth questions quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which physiologic effect may occur in the presence of increased maternal pain perception during labor?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Increased maternal pain perception during labor can lead to decreased perfusion to the placenta due to catecholamine secretion. When a mother experiences pain, stress hormones like catecholamines are released, causing vasoconstriction of blood vessels, including those supplying the placenta. This vasoconstriction reduces blood flow to the placenta, potentially compromising fetal oxygenation and nutrient delivery. Choice A is incorrect because increased catecholamine secretion would not directly cause an increase in uterine contractions. Choice B is incorrect because alpha receptors are not typically involved in decreasing blood pressure in response to pain perception. Choice D is incorrect because increased uterine blood flow would not cause an increase in maternal blood pressure; in fact, it would likely have the opposite effect as increased blood flow typically leads to decreased blood pressure.
Question 2 of 5
A patient in labor reports a feeling of burning pain during the second stage of labor. This type of pain is associated with
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: somatic pain. Somatic pain is caused by the activation of pain receptors in the skin, muscles, or bones. In the second stage of labor, the baby's head passes through the birth canal, stretching the pelvic floor muscles and causing pressure and stretching of the perineum. This results in somatic pain due to the activation of pain receptors in these structures. Visceral pain (choice A) is deep, dull pain from internal organs, not applicable here. Tissue ischemia (choice B) refers to inadequate blood supply causing tissue damage, not pain. Cervical dilation (choice C) is not typically associated with burning pain.
Question 3 of 5
A labor patient has brought in a photograph of her two children and asks the nurse to place it on the wall so that she can look at it during labor contractions. This is an example of
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: focal point. Placing the photograph on the wall serves as a focal point for the laboring patient, helping her to concentrate and stay focused during contractions. By having a specific point of visual focus, the patient can channel her energy and emotions towards the photo, providing a sense of comfort and motivation. It can also serve as a source of inspiration and reminder of the joy of motherhood, which can help in managing the pain and anxiety of labor. Summary of other choices: B: Distraction - While the photograph may provide a distraction, the primary purpose is to serve as a focal point for the patient. C: Effleurage - Effleurage is a massage technique used in labor, not related to placing a photograph on the wall. D: Relaxation - While the photograph may help in relaxation indirectly by providing comfort and focus, the primary purpose is not relaxation but rather concentration and emotional support.
Question 4 of 5
A laboring patient has asked the nurse to assist her in utilizing a cutaneous stimulation strategy for pain management. The nurse would
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because applying a heat pack to the lower back can help alleviate labor pain through cutaneous stimulation. Heat therapy can increase blood flow, relax muscles, and reduce pain perception. Choice A is not specific to cutaneous stimulation and may not provide effective pain relief. Choice C focuses on mental imagery, not cutaneous stimulation. Choice D, while helpful for pain management, does not involve cutaneous stimulation.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is providing care to a patient in the active phase of the first stage of labor. The patient is crying out loudly with each contraction. What is the nurse's most respectful approach for this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why Answer A is correct: 1. Asking the patient's labor coach shows respect for the patient's support person and acknowledges their insight into the patient's usual behavior. 2. It allows the nurse to gather information about the patient's pain expression without assuming or judging the situation. 3. This approach promotes patient-centered care and involves the patient's primary support system in decision-making. 4. It fosters open communication and partnership between the nurse, patient, and labor coach, enhancing the overall quality of care. Summary: - Option B is incorrect because pain medication should not be assumed without assessing the patient's current pain level first. - Option C is incorrect as it lacks empathy and disregards the patient's emotional state during labor. - Option D is incorrect as it suggests suppressing a natural response to pain, which may not be beneficial for the patient's coping mechanism.