Carmen, a 32-year-old pregnant female at 39 weeks’ gestation, arrives at the maternity clinic for a scheduled checkup. She is accompanied by her husband, Carlos, who has been her primary support throughout the pregnancy. Carmen is a gravida 2, para 1, with a history of a previous cesarean section. The couple is eagerly anticipating the birth of their second child via VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). Carmen reports intermittent contractions and a sense of pressure in her lower abdomen over the past 24 hours. She denies any vaginal bleeding, rupture of membranes, or severe abdominal pain. Carlos mentions that Carmen has been experiencing increased anxiety as her due date approaches, and they express concerns about the upcoming labor, especially considering the previous cesarean section. Carmen has a history of gestational diabetes, which has been well managed through diet and regular monitoring. Her blood pressure has remained within the normal range throughout the pregnancy, and fetal ultrasound scans have shown a healthy, appropriately sized fetus. Carmen’s previous cesarean section was due to breech presentation in her first pregnancy. Her vital signs are as follows: blood pressure: 118/76 mm Hg, heart rate: 92 bpm, respiratory rate: 18 breaths per minute, temperature: 98.7° F (37.1° C), and fetal heart rate: 145 bpm, regular rhythm.
3 .
What nonpharmacologic solutions can the nurse suggest to address Carmen’s anxiety and support needs during the prenatal visit, and how might these solutions involve Carlos in the process?
4 .
As the nurse, what specific actions would you take during the visit to address Carmen’s anxiety, enhance her understanding of the upcoming labor, and ensure both she and Carlos feel adequately supported?