Question

A primigravida arrives at the observation unit of the maternity unit because she thinks she is in labor. The nurse applies the external fetal heart monitor and determines that the fetal heart rate is 140 beats/minute and the contractions are occurring irregularly every 10 to 15 minutes. What assessment finding confirms to the nurse that the client is not in labor at this time?

Answer 1

Irregular contractions occurring every 10 to 15 minutes and failure to dilate confirm that the client is not in labor at this time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment finding that confirms to the nurse that the client is not in labor at this time is irregular contractions occurring every 10 to 15 minutes. In true labor, the contractions become more frequent and powerful with time, and they do not abate with hydration or rest. Additionally, the cervical dilation and effacement are key indicators of labor progression, and in this case, the cervix is not dilated.