As she nears her expected delivery date, a woman reports that she ...

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As she nears her expected delivery date, a woman reports that she is breathing more easily but now has to urinate frequently. The nurse should explain to her that:
 
  a. The symptoms are typical of false labor.
  b. Cervical dilation puts pressure on the bladder.
  c. She needs a urinalysis to rule out a bladder infection.
  d. This is lightening caused by the fetus moving downward in the pelvis.

Question 2

During childbirth education, a woman should be advised that she may have a sudden gush of fluid from the vagina as she approaches her expected delivery date. Which statement best explains this event?
 
  a. The fluid, often called bloody show, is caused by the expulsion of a protective mucous plug from the cervix.
  b. This loss of fluid is usually related to overexertion during the sudden burst of energy that often occurs shortly before labor begins.
  c. Rupture of amniotic membranes allows the amniotic fluid to flow from the uterus through the vagina.
  d. The passage of fluid eliminates excess water in preparation for the process of labor.

[Sweetkitty24130]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
As the uterus descends into the maternal pelvis, pressure on the diaphragm decreases and pressure on the bladder increases. Therefore, breathing becomes easier and the woman feels the need to void often.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Rupture of the amniotic membranes (ROM) permits amniotic fluid to pass through the vagina. Women commonly go into labor within 24 hours after ROM. If the membranes do not rupture spontaneously, the physician may rupture them artificially. Artificial rupture of the membranes is useful in inducing labor if it does not begin spontaneously.