Question

A nurse is teaching a prenatal class about pain management during labor. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as a patient understanding the instructions?

A) "I should avoid all pain medications during labor."
B) "I will ask for an epidural as soon as I arrive at the hospital."
C) "I can try breathing techniques and relaxation exercises first."
D) "I don't need to think about pain management until labor starts."

Answer 1

The statement that indicates patient understanding of pain management during labor is 'I can try breathing techniques and relaxation exercises first.' This aligns with non-pharmacological approaches to managing labor pain, prior to considering medications.

Step-by-step explanation:

In response to the statement a prenatal class nurse should identify as a patient understanding instructions about pain management during labor, the correct option is C) "I can try breathing techniques and relaxation exercises first." This reflects an understanding that non-pharmacological pain management techniques can be employed initially during labor. Pain during labor results from myometrial hypoxia during uterine contractions, as the cervix dilates to about 10 cm to allow the baby to pass through during the birthing process.

Options A and D indicate a lack of preparation or misunderstandings about pain management strategies. Option B suggests immediate reliance on an epidural, which may not be necessary or preferred by all patients, and does not consider the full spectrum of pain management options available.