Question

With regard to the care management of preterm labor, nurses should be aware that

a. Because all women must be considered at risk for preterm labor and prediction is so hit-and-miss, teaching pregnant women the symptoms probably causes more harm through false alarms.
b. Braxton Hicks contractions often signal the onset of preterm labor.
c. Because preterm labor is likely to be the start of an extended labor, a woman with symptoms can wait several hours before contacting the primary caregiver.
d. The diagnosis of preterm labor is based on gestational age, uterine activity, and progressive cervical change.

Answer 1

Nurses should be aware of the diagnosis and symptoms of preterm labor.

Step-by-step explanation:

Nurses should be aware that the diagnosis of preterm labor is based on gestational age, uterine activity, and progressive cervical change (option d). In preterm labor, the cervix starts to dilate and efface, leading to regular contractions that become more frequent and powerful with time (option a). Braxton Hicks contractions, on the other hand, are weak and irregular contractions that do not abate with rest or hydration and can often be relieved with rest or hydration (option b).