Question

During a preconception counseling session, the nurse encourages a couple to prepare a birth plan. Which of the following is the most important goal for this action?

1) Promote communication between the couple and health care professionals.
2) Enable the couple to learn about the types of medicine used in labor.
3) Provide the couple with a list of items that they should put in a bag for labor.
4) Give the high-risk couple a sense of control over having to have a cesarean

Answer 1

The primary goal of preparing a birth plan is to enhance communication between the couple and healthcare providers, to ensure their needs and preferences are understood.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important goal for encouraging a couple to prepare a birth plan during preconception counseling is to promote communication between the couple and health care professionals. An effective birth plan fosters dialogue and ensures that the expectations and wishes of the couple are understood, which can contribute to a more positive and controlled birthing experience.

It allows the couple to discuss and understand the processes involved in labor, including the stages of labor and the administration of medications such as Pitocin to stimulate labor if necessary. A birth plan also empowers the couple by giving them a sense of control and a proactive role in the birthing process, which is especially important for potentially high-risk situations.