Question

A nurse is assessing a pregnant woman who has come to the clinic. The woman reports that she feels some heaviness in her thighs since yesterday. The nurse suspects that the woman may be experiencing preterm labor based on which additional assessment findings? Select all that apply.

A. Presence of bloody show
B. Cervical dilation
C. Urinary frequency
D. Pelvic pressure

Answer 1

A nurse might suspect preterm labor if a pregnant woman experiences pelvic pressure, cervical dilation, or the presence of bloody show, in addition to heaviness in her thighs. Urinary frequency alone is not a direct indicator of preterm labor.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assessing a pregnant woman for potential preterm labor would be concerned about several findings in addition to heaviness in the thighs. The additional assessment findings that might indicate preterm labor include:

• Presence of bloody show: This is a sign that labour might be imminent as the mucus plug blocking the cervical canal is expelled.
• Cervical dilation: Dilation of the cervix before 37 weeks of pregnancy could suggest preterm labor.
• Pelvic pressure: An increase in pressure in the pelvic area can indicate changes that may lead to labor.

While urinary frequency is common in pregnancy due to pressure on the bladder, it is not directly indicative of preterm labour. In the scenario provided, the woman named Devin should return home because, despite the mild contractions, there is no indication of labour progress such as dilation of the cervix or expulsion of the mucus plug.