Final answer:
When a pregnant patient's 'water has broken,' it means that the membranes have ruptured, causing a gush of fluid. Contractions usually start soon after, leading to the progression of labor.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a pregnant patient advises you that her 'water has broken,' it means that the membranes have ruptured. The amniotic sac, which contains the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, breaks, causing a gush of fluid. This usually occurs near the time of birth and is commonly referred to as 'breaking water.' Contractions typically begin within a day of the membranes rupturing, and labor progresses as the contractions help push the baby out of the uterus and through the vagina.