Question

The perinatal nurse obtains valuable information from a vaginal examination. Which of the following assessments from this examination should the nurse document? (Select all that apply.)

A. Extent of cervical dilation
B. Fetal presentation
C. Presence of cervical effacement
D. Status of the amniotic membranes
E. Strength of uterine contractions

Answer 1

The perinatal nurse can document the extent of cervical dilation, fetal presentation, presence of cervical effacement, status of the amniotic membranes, and strength of uterine contractions from a vaginal examination.

Step-by-step explanation:

From a vaginal examination, the perinatal nurse can document the following assessments:

• Extent of cervical dilation: This assessment measures how open the cervix is and indicates progress in labor. It is measured in centimeters.
• Fetal presentation: This refers to the position of the baby in the womb, such as head-down (vertex) or breech.
• Presence of cervical effacement: Effacement is the thinning and shortening of the cervix, which also indicates progress in labor. It is measured in percentage.
• Status of the amniotic membranes: This assessment determines whether the amniotic sac is intact or if there is a rupture, which can indicate the need for intervention.
• Strength of uterine contractions: The nurse can assess the frequency, duration, and intensity of contractions to monitor the progress of labor.