What is show?

Appeared in: RIMS Nursing Officer - 2022

Explanation

'Show' refers to the passage of a small amount of blood-tinged mucus that has been blocking the cervical canal during pregnancy.
This occurs as the cervix begins to efface (thin out) and dilate (open up) in preparation for labor.
The process causes small capillaries in the cervix to tear, leading to the characteristic pink or brown, sticky discharge.
It is a common sign that labor is about to begin, often occurring hours or even days before the onset of regular contractions.

Option A: This term describes 'quickening', the first perception of fetal movement by the mother, which occurs much earlier in pregnancy (around 16-20 weeks).
Option C: This refers to 'lightening', the descent of the fetal head into the pelvic inlet. It is a change in fetal position, not a vaginal discharge.
Option D: This is a Latin term for the 'force from behind', which describes the propulsive power of uterine contractions during labor.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition of 'show' in labor and delivery as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must educate patients to distinguish normal 'show' (scant, pink/brown mucus) from abnormal bleeding (heavy, bright red flow), which could indicate complications like placenta previa or abruption and requires immediate medical attention.
Assessing for 'show' is a key part of triage for patients presenting with signs of labor, helping to determine if cervical changes and labor progression have begun.
What if? If a patient reports a large gush of clear fluid instead of a sticky, bloody mucus, the priority shifts to assessing for ruptured membranes (water breaking). The nurse would then assess the fluid's color, odor, and timing, and check the fetal heart rate.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing your knowledge of obstetric terminology.
Read the term in the question: 'show'.
Evaluate each option to find its precise definition.
Option A, 'First foetal movement,' is known as 'quickening'.
Option C, 'Engagement of head,' is known as 'lightening'.
Option D, 'Vis-a-tergo,' refers to the force of uterine contractions.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 7-12

Practise the full RIMS Nursing Officer - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.