The primiparous patient has stated that she wants to avoid an epidural and would like an unmedicated birth. Which nursing action is most important for this patient?
1. Encourage the patient to vocalize during contractions.
2. Perform vaginal exams only between contractions.
3. Provide a CD of soft music with sounds of nature.
4. Offer to teach the partner how to massage tense muscles.
4
Rationale 1: Some patients want to vocalize during labor, and some vocalize only when they perceive that they are losing control. The patient should determine whether vocalization is desirable for her.
Rationale 2: Vaginal exams are performed between contractions for all laboring patients in order to decrease discomfort.
Rationale 3: The nurse should ask the patient what type of music she would like to listen to instead of making assumptions.
Rationale 4: Massage is helpful for many patients, especially during latent and active labor. Massage can increase relaxation and therefore decrease tension and pain.
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