1.
Which is NOT one of the pre-labor signs?
Correct Answer
C. Swollen extremeties
Explanation
Lightening occurs when the baby drops into the pelvis, which can also cause sporadic backaches. Nesting is an unexplainable urge to prepare for the baby that can occur weeks before labor, and warm-up contractions (AKA Braxton Hicks) occur days/weeks before labor to get the uterus ready for the physical strains of contractions.
2.
What happens during the second phase of stage one of labor (also known as active labor)
Correct Answer
B. The cervix dilates to 7cm, regular contractions start, the baby usually internally rotates to face the pelvis.
Explanation
During the second phase of stage one of labor, which is also known as active labor, the cervix dilates to 7cm, regular contractions start, and the baby usually internally rotates to face the pelvis. This phase marks the progression of labor, as the cervix continues to open and the contractions become more intense and frequent. The baby's internal rotation is an important movement that helps facilitate the birthing process.
3.
The phase of labor that is the shortest part of early labor and the cervix dilates to 10cm is called what?
Correct Answer
A. Transition
Explanation
Transition is the correct answer because it refers to the phase of labor where the cervix dilates from 8-10cm. It is the shortest part of early labor and marks the transition from the first stage of labor to the second stage. During this phase, contractions become stronger, closer together, and more intense, preparing the body for pushing and delivery.
4.
During early labor, the cervix ---------------, meaning it thins out.
Correct Answer
effaces, Effaces
Explanation
During early labor, the cervix undergoes a process called effacement, which means it thins out. This is a normal and necessary step in the progression of labor, as it allows the cervix to open and make way for the baby to pass through the birth canal. Effacement is measured in percentages, with 0% indicating a thick cervix and 100% indicating a fully effaced cervix.
5.
What is not true of the second stage of labor?
Correct Answer
C. The placenta is delivered.
Explanation
The second stage of labor involves the delivery of the baby and the full dilation of the cervix. During this stage, contractions become stronger and more frequent, allowing the baby to move down the birth canal and eventually be born. The placenta, however, is not delivered during the second stage of labor. It is typically delivered in the third stage, after the baby is born. The duration of the second stage can vary, lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to 3 hours.
6.
The uterus contracting to it's original size after childbirth is also known as..........?
Correct Answer
involution
Explanation
Involution refers to the process of the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size and shape after childbirth. This process involves the contraction of uterine muscles to expel any remaining placental tissue and to close off blood vessels that supplied the placenta. The contraction and shrinking of the uterus help to prevent excessive bleeding and promote healing. Therefore, involution is the correct term to describe the phenomenon of the uterus contracting to its original size after childbirth.
7.
What is the "normal" range for the fetal heart rate?
Correct Answer
B. 110-160 BPM
Explanation
The "normal" range for the fetal heart rate is 110-160 BPM. This range is considered normal because it indicates that the baby's heart is beating at a healthy rate. A heart rate that is too slow or too fast could be a sign of potential health issues in the fetus. Monitoring the fetal heart rate is an important part of prenatal care to ensure the baby's well-being.
8.
Early decels....
Correct Answer
A. Are usually non-pathological, and are caused by fetal head compression
Explanation
Early decelerations are usually non-pathological and are caused by fetal head compression. They occur as a response to the pressure exerted on the fetal head during contractions. These decelerations are considered a normal physiological response and do not require immediate interventions. They are often a sign of a healthy, well-oxygenated fetus. Contrary to the other options, early decelerations do not usually result in fetal mortality and can coincide with contractions.
9.
What is the usual cause of late decels?
Correct Answer
D. Uteroplacental insufficiency
Explanation
Uteroplacental insufficiency is the usual cause of late decels. This condition occurs when there is inadequate blood flow from the mother to the placenta, leading to decreased oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetus. Late decels are a pattern seen on a fetal heart rate monitor, where the heart rate decreases after the peak of a contraction. This is a sign of fetal distress and can indicate a compromised blood supply to the fetus.