Which action is correct when palpation is used to assess the ...

[luminitza]

Which action is correct when palpation is used to assess the characteristics and pattern of uterine contractions?
 
  a. Place the hand on the abdomen below the umbilicus and palpate uterine tone with the fingertips.
  b. Determine the frequency by timing from the end of one contraction to the end of the next contraction.
  c. Evaluate the intensity by pressing the fingertips into the uterine fundus.
  d. Assess uterine contractions every 30 minutes throughout the first stage of labor.

Question 2

What is an expected characteristic of amniotic fluid?
 
  a. Deep yellow color
  b. Pale, straw color with small white particles
  c. Acidic result on a Nitrazine test
  d. Absence of ferning

[mcabuhat]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
The nurse or primary care provider may assess uterine activity by palpating the fundal section of the uterus using the fingertips. Many women may experience labor pain in the lower segment of the uterus that may be unrelated to the firmness of the contraction detectable in the uterine fundus. The frequency of uterine contractions is determined by palpating from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next contraction. Assessment of uterine activity is performed in intervals based on the stage of labor. As labor progresses this assessment is performed more frequently.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Amniotic fluid normally is a pale, straw-colored fluid that may contain white flecks of vernix. Yellow-stained fluid may indicate fetal hypoxia up to 36 hours before rupture of membranes, fetal hemolytic disease, or intrauterine infection. Amniotic fluid produces an alkaline result on a Nitrazine test. The presence of ferning is a positive indication of amniotic fluid.