Final answer:
True labor is characterized by regular, powerful, and frequent contractions that lead to progressive cervical dilation and effacement. Unlike false labor, these contractions do not subside with rest or walking, and the pain is due to myometrial hypoxia. Properly identifying these signs is crucial for nurses providing care to laboring patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
A charge nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse how to identify true labor. An important aspect of this teaching should focus on the recognition of progressive cervical dilation and effacement. True labor is characterized by a positive feedback loop where uterine contractions become more powerful and frequent over time, leading to further cervical dilation and effacement. These contractions are different from false labor as they do not decrease with walking or rest and are not relieved by changing positions. The pain associated with these contractions is due to myometrial hypoxia.
Specifically, stage one of labor involves the cervical changes necessary for the baby to be expelled, with the cervix dilating to around 10 cm. If labor stops before reaching stage two, it may be necessary to administer synthetic oxytocin, known as Pitocin, to restart and maintain contractions. This information allows for the differentiation between true and false labor, aiding the nurse in providing appropriate care for laboring patients.