When a nulliparous woman telephones the hospital to report that she is in labor, the nurse initially should:
Ask the woman to describe why she believes she is in labor
When a nulliparous woman telephones the hospital to report that she is in labor, the nurse should respond by asking her questions to get a clear understanding of the situation. Some of the questions that the nurse might ask include:
1. What is the frequency and duration of your contractions?
2. When did your contractions start?
3. Have you noticed any bleeding?
4. Have your membranes ruptured? If so, what color is the fluid?
5. How far are you from the hospital?
6. Have you taken any medications for pain relief?
7. Have you had any complications during this pregnancy?
8. Do you have a birth plan or any specific requests?
The nurse should also remind the woman to breathe deeply and stay calm while waiting for further instructions and reassure her that help is on the way. The nurse may also advise the woman to come to the hospital or direct her to go to the nearest medical facility if it is not safe or feasible to travel to the hospital. Additionally, the nurse may suggest some comfort measures that the woman or her support person can use to manage pain.
More Answers:
Palpation Techniques for Assessing Uterine Contractions: Importance of Gentle and Hygienic Approach.Minimizing Infection Risk for Mother and Fetus during Rupture of Membranes: A Guide for Labor Nurses
Amniotic Fluid: Characteristics, Volumes and Importance for Fetal Development during Pregnancy