Maternity Nursing Q 95

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The nurse in charge is caring for a patient who is in the first stage of labor. What is the shortest but most difficult part of this stage?

  

     A. Active phase

     B. Complete phase

     C. Latent phase

     D. Transitional phase

    

    

Correct Answer: D. Transitional phase

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The transitional phase, which lasts 1 to 3 hours, is the shortest but most difficult part of the first stage of labor. This phase is characterized by intense uterine contractions that occur every 1 ½ to 2 minutes and last 45 to 90 seconds.

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Option A: The active phase lasts 4 ½ to 6 hours; it is characterized by contractions that start out moderately intense, grow stronger, and last about 60 seconds.

Option B: The complete phase occurs during the second, not first, stage of labor.

Option C: The latent phase lasts 5 to 8 hours and is marked by mild, short, irregular contractions.

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