Question

A woman comes to the hospital in labor. Her membranes rupture at 4:10 AM. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

1. Identify the amniotic fluid by testing it or alkalinity
2. Contact physician and prepare for immediate delivery.
3. Note the time of rupture
4. Observe for a prolapsed cord or meconium stained fluid.

Answer 1

The nurse should first observe for a prolapsed cord or meconium stained fluid when a woman's membranes rupture during labor.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should first observe for a prolapsed cord or meconium stained fluid when a woman's membranes rupture during labor. A prolapsed cord occurs when the umbilical cord slips through the cervix and precedes the fetus. This is an emergency situation that requires immediate intervention to prevent harm to the fetus. Meconium stained fluid, which is greenish or yellowish in color, indicates that the baby has passed stool in utero, and it may be a sign of fetal distress.