Final answer:
According to EMTALA, pregnant women should receive care for issues such as a history of recent trauma, contractions, decreased fetal movement, and rupture of the membranes. Pitocin may be administered to induce or augment labor if there are signs of prolonged labor without adequate progression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse in the birthing unit is aware that, according to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA), pregnant women should receive care for a variety of issues, some of which include:
- A history of recent trauma: Any trauma could affect the pregnancy, hence immediate care is warranted.
- Contractions that occur 20 minutes apart: This could be a sign of early labor or pre-labor and requires monitoring.
- Decreased fetal movement: A decrease in the baby's movements could indicate distress.
- Rupture of the membranes: Also known as 'water breaking', this typically signals the commencement of labor.
- Sexually transmitted infections: While not directly related to labor, untreated STIs can have serious implications for both mother and child during delivery.
Regarding the referenced scenario about Janine, an IV infusion of pitocin is started likely because she is past her due date and showing signs of labor, but not progressing typically (prolonged labor). Pitocin is used to induce or augment labor, helping to advance the dilatation of the cervix and encourage more regular contractions.
In another scenario, labor might not be initiated despite other signs of early labor. An intact cervical mucus plug and absence of cervical dilation signify that the body is not yet ready for delivery, as observed with Devin at 35 weeks pregnant. The plug and dilation are essential for childbirth, hence the advice to return home and wait for more definitive signs of labor.