NCLEX Question for Contraction Assessment

Which of the following is the best way for the nurse to assess contractions in a client presenting to the labor and delivery area?
 

a.    Place the client on the electronic fetal monitor with the labor toco at the fudus.

b.    As the client to describe the frequency, duration, and strength of her contractions.

c.    Use Leopold’s maneuvers to determine the quality of the uterine contractions.

d.    Place the fingertips of one hand on the fundus to determine frequency, duration, and strength of contractions.

Correct Answer D. The fingertips of one hand allow the nurse to feel when the contraction begins and ends and to determine the strength of by the firmness of the uterus.
 

Although the electronic fetal monitor can yield useful information as the patient continues to labor, it is not the best way for initial assessment to occur.
 

Self-report by the patient may be used to supplement the nurse’s assessment, but should not replace it.
 

Leopold’s maneuverses are used to determine fetal position prior to auscultation of heart rate. They do not provide information about contractions.

Posted in: MCN NCLEX