Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

27. The Reproductive System

Introduction to the Reproductive System

Anatomy & Physiology

27. The Reproductive System

Introduction to the Reproductive System

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Multiple Choice

A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and reports increasing rectal pressure. This symptom most likely indicates which of the following?

The client is experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions.

The placenta is beginning to separate from the uterine wall.

The client is entering the latent phase of the first stage of labor.

The fetus is descending into the birth canal and the client is likely in the second stage of labor.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the stages of labor: Labor is divided into three main stages. The first stage includes the latent, active, and transition phases, where the cervix dilates. The second stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm) and ends with the delivery of the baby. The third stage involves the delivery of the placenta.

Recognize the symptoms of the second stage of labor: During this stage, the fetus descends into the birth canal, and the mother may feel intense rectal pressure due to the baby's head pressing against the pelvic floor and rectum.

Differentiate between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor: Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and do not lead to cervical dilation or fetal descent. They are often described as 'practice contractions' and do not cause rectal pressure.

Understand the role of the placenta: The placenta separating from the uterine wall is a sign of placental abruption or the third stage of labor (after the baby is delivered). This is not associated with rectal pressure during labor.

Conclude that increasing rectal pressure is a hallmark sign of the second stage of labor, as it indicates the fetus is descending into the birth canal and the mother is preparing for delivery.