The nurse is directing an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to obtain maternal vital signs between contractions. Which statement is the appropriate rationale for assessing maternal vital signs between contractions rather than at another interval?
A) Vital signs taken during contractions are inaccurate.
B) During a contraction, assessing fetal heart rate is the priority.
C) Maternal blood flow to the heart is reduced during contractions.
D) Maternal circulating blood volume increases temporarily during contractions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During uterine contractions, blood flow to the placenta temporarily stops, causing a relative increase in the mother's blood volume, which in turn temporarily increases blood pressure and slows the pulse. Vital signs are altered by contractions but are considered accurate for a period of time. It is important to monitor the fetal response to contractions, but the question is concerned with the maternal vital signs. Maternal blood flow is increased during a contraction.

The Nurse Is Directing an Unlicensed Assistive Personnel (UAP) to Obtain