A new nurse is caring for a woman in the transition phase of labor.The nurse attempts to engage the woman in conversation and chats even when the woman doesn't respond to these attempts.What action by the nurse's preceptor is most appropriate?
A) Direct the nurse to attempt conversation with the support person.
B) Encourage the nurse to keep attempting to engage the woman in conversation.
C) Gently ask the nurse to refrain from unnecessary conversation.
D) Tell the nurse not to take the woman's silence as a personal rejection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the more intense phases of labor,women may draw inward in an attempt to cope with the increasing demands of their labor.Also,there are cultural differences in the way people respond to silence and conversation.Because this woman appears to be concentrating on her own body and labor and not responding to the nurse,the preceptor should gently ask the new nurse to refrain from all but necessary communication.This shows respect for the work the woman is doing.It is also a good idea to let the new nurse know that this is probably not a personal rejection,but it is more important to respect the woman's need for quiet.

A New Nurse Is Caring for a Woman in the Transition