Question

A nurse is palpating the client's bladder and is encouraging her to void every 1 to 2 hr during labor predominantly because a:

a) Full bladder can impede fetal descent
b) Full bladder enhances uterine contractions
c) Full bladder prevents cervical dilation
d) Full bladder reduces the risk of infection

Answer 1

A nurse encourages a woman in labor to void every 1 to 2 hours because a full bladder can impede fetal descent by creating a physical barrier in the birth canal.

Step-by-step explanation:

During labor, it is important for a nurse to palpate the bladder and encourage a woman to void every 1 to 2 hours because a full bladder can impede fetal descent. The presence of a full bladder can create a physical barrier that may prevent the baby from moving further down the birth canal. As the uterus contracts during labor, it not only aids in dilating and effacing the cervix but also puts downward pressure on the urinary bladder, which can lead to increased frequency of urination due to fetal pressure. Clearing the bladder regularly also ensures that it does not obstruct the birth process by getting in the way of the descending fetus. A full bladder does not enhance uterine contractions, prevent cervical dilation, or reduce the risk of infection in this context; therefore, the primary reason for voiding is to avoid an obstruction that can hinder labor progression.