Final answer:
To obtain an accurate fundal height measurement, the nurse should instruct the patient to empty her bladder. Bladder pressure from a full-term fetus adds to existing pressure, which can prompt the micturition reflex. In prolonged labor with minimal cervical dilation, pitocin may be administered to stimulate contractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fundal Height Measurement Instructions
To assess an accurate fundal height, the nurse should instruct the patient to empty her bladder. This action minimizes the influence of a full bladder on the measurement, ensuring accuracy. A full-term fetus typically weighs around 3.50 kg and can exert significant pressure on the mother's bladder. This pressure can lead to frequent urination and may even trigger the micturition reflex due to the additional pressure on the bladder. In a medical examination, it is essential to consider such physiological factors when performing assessments like fundal height measurement.
Bladder Pressure in Pregnancy
Pregnant women often experience an increase in bladder pressure, which can lead to frequent urination. A full-term fetus can create significant pressure if it rests on the mother's bladder on a supported area. This pressure adds to the pressure already existing in the bladder, contributing to the feeling of needing to urinate and the potential triggering of the micturition reflex.
Pitocin Use in Labor
In cases where labor is not progressing effectively, as with Janine's situation at 41 weeks of pregnancy and experiencing mild contractions with minimal cervical dilation, an IV infusion of pitocin is often started to stimulate labor contractions and progress the birthing process.