During the course of labor, a client has been having her labor coach rub her lower back to relieve pain. After 30 minutes, the client complains that this method is no longer working and becomes increasingly frustrated with the labor coach. The vaginal exam is 2 to 3 cm, 80% effaced, and -1 station, membranes intact. Which option would you recommend to decrease the client's perceived pain?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It would appear that habituation has occurred and a change of location may lead to improved pain control relief through touch. A vaginal exam does not address the client's concern of pain, and there is no evidence to support the use of this option at this time. Current data from the vaginal exam indicate that the client is in early labor. The client and labor coach have a bond so to remove the labor coach from the room would further isolate the client and potentially raise the perceived pain level. The nurse should encourage the client and labor coach to work together during the labor process. It is too early in the labor process to recommend the use of narcotics because this might further delay labor. Alternate treatment options involve the use of nonpharmacologic methods such as touch and positioning.

During the Course of Labor, a Client Has Been Having