A nurse is assessing a woman in labor. Which finding would the nurse identify as a cause for concern during a contraction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A decrease in respiratory rate (to 10 breaths per minute in this case) during labor could indicate respiratory depression or inadequate oxygenation, which is concerning for both the mother and the fetus. Increases in heart rate and blood pressure are normal physiological responses to pain and stress during contractions. A white blood cell count of 12,000 cells/mm3 is also considered normal during labor due to stress and physiological changes.

A Nurse Is Assessing a Woman in Labor