The nurse recognizes that a woman is in true labor when she states:
The contractions in my uterus are getting stronger and closer together
The signs of true labor that a nurse should assess in a patient.
A nurse can determine whether a woman is in true labor by assessing the following signs:
1. Contractions that become stronger and more regular over time and do not go away with a change in activity or position. True labor contractions are usually felt in the back and move down toward the front of the abdomen.
2. Cervical changes, such as dilation (opening of the cervix) and effacement (thinning of the cervix), as measured by a vaginal exam.
3. Bloody show, which is a pink or brown-tinged mucus discharge that indicates the passing of the cervix’s mucus plug.
4. The patient experiences discomfort in the lower back, pelvic area, and lower abdomen.
5. The baby’s position changes, and the mother may feel increased pressure on the pelvic floor.
These signs indicate that a woman is in true labor and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate course of action for delivery.
More Answers:
Amniotic Fluid: Characteristics, Volumes and Importance for Fetal Development during PregnancyKey Questions to Ask a Nulliparous Woman in Labor
5 Characteristics of True Labor Contractions: Differentiating Them from Braxton Hicks