Maternity Nursing Q 86

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Which of the following characteristics of contractions would the nurse expect to find in a client experiencing true labor?

  

     A. Occurring at irregular intervals.

     B. Starting mainly in the abdomen.

     C. Gradually increasing intervals.

     D. Increasing intensity with walking.

    

    

Correct Answer: D. Increasing intensity with walking

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With true labor, contractions increase in intensity with walking. In addition, true labor contractions occur at regular intervals, usually starting in the back and sweeping around to the abdomen. The interval of true labor contractions gradually shortens.

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Option A: Unlike false labor contractions or Braxton Hicks contractions, true labor contractions don’t stop when you change your position or relax. It occurs at regular intervals.

Option B: Labor contractions usually cause discomfort or a dull ache at the back and lower abdomen, along with pressure in the pelvis.

Option C: True labor contractions come at regular intervals and get closer together as time goes on. (Contractions last about 30 to 70 seconds.).

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