Question

A primigravida at 40 weeks gestation is having contractions every 2 minutes. Her cervix is dilated to 9cm. What should be done next?

1) Have delivery table set up
2) Ask husband to step out
3) Administer a PRN narcotic
4) Cannot be fixed

Answer 1

At 40 weeks with contractions every 2 minutes and 9cm dilation, the next step is to have the delivery table set up in anticipation of the second stage of labor. Hence, option 1 is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

A primigravida at 40 weeks gestation with contractions every 2 minutes and a cervix dilated to 9cm is approaching the final stage of the dilation phase of labor. At this point, the appropriate next step would be to have the delivery table set up, as full cervical dilation to 10cm is imminent, and the second stage of labor, which involves the expulsion of the baby, will soon begin. This preparation is critical to ensure a safe and efficient delivery process for both the mother and the baby. Administering a PRN narcotic is not the primary focus at this stage unless there is a specific need for pain management and it is safe to do so. Asking the husband to step out is unnecessary unless the situation warrants privacy for a medical procedure or patient preference. Having skilled health professionals ready to assist with the birth is the priority.