Final answer:
Normal amniotic fluid is characterized by being a clear liquid that may contain white specks or lanugo. A slight ammonia odor and a yellow-greenish color are not typical characteristics of normal amniotic fluid and should be reported to a healthcare provider.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse would evaluate normal amniotic fluid with several characteristics. Normal amniotic fluid is generally a clear liquid, which allows for the fetus to move freely and provides cushioning. In addition, it is not unusual for normal amniotic fluid to contain fetal skin cells or other materials, which could appear as white specks. Presence of lanugo, which are the fine hairs that sometimes cover the fetus, could also be found within the amniotic fluid. However, a slight ammonia odor is not typically associated with normal amniotic fluid as this fluid is predominantly made up of fetal urine and can contain proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids necessary for fetal growth. The fluid should not have a yellow-greenish color; this can be a sign of meconium and may indicate fetal distress. It is critical that any rupture of the membranes and the description of the fluid be reported to a healthcare provider for appropriate assessment and intervention if necessary.