For women who have a history of sexual abuse,a number of traumatic memories may be triggered during labor. The woman may fight the labor process and react with pain or anger. Alternately she may become a passive player and emotionally absent herself from the process. The nurse is in a unique position of being able to assist the client to associate the sensations of labor with the process of childbirth and not the past abuse. The nurse can implement a number of care measures to help her client view the childbirth experience in a positive manner. Which intervention would be key for the nurse to use while providing care?

Question

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The number of invasive procedures such as vaginal examinations,internal monitoring,and intravenous therapy should be limited as much as possible. The nurse should always avoid words and phrases that may result in the client's recalling the phrases of her abuser (e.g.,"Relax,this won't hurt" or "Just open your legs."
) The woman's sense of control should be maintained at all times. The nurse should explain procedures at the client's pace and wait for permission to proceed. Protecting the client's environment by providing privacy and limiting the number of staff who observe the client will help to make her feel safe.

For Women Who Have a History of Sexual Abuse,a Number