Which of the following is NOT a sign of true labour?
Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-2026 (Shift -3rd)
Explanation
Irregular contractions that do not increase in frequency or intensity and often subside with rest or a change in position are characteristic of false labor, also known as Braxton Hicks contractions.
These contractions are preparatory and do not cause the progressive cervical changes (dilation and effacement) that define true labor.
True labor involves a consistent pattern of contractions that become stronger, last longer, and occur closer together over time, regardless of rest or activity.
Why Other Options Were Wrong
Option A: This is the most definitive sign of true labor. Progressive dilation and effacement of the cervix indicate that the uterine contractions are effective and labor is progressing.
Option C: This is a hallmark of true labor. As labor progresses, the uterine contractions become more powerful to facilitate cervical dilation and fetal descent.
Option D: This is a primary indicator of true labor. The establishment of a regular, predictable pattern of contractions distinguishes true labor from the sporadic nature of false labor.
Related Visual
Visual 1: Table - A comparative table outlining the key differences between true labor and false labor (Braxton Hicks contractions), focusing on contraction pattern, intensity, location of pain, and cervical changes.
Clinical Relevance
Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Differentiation between True and False Labor as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must accurately differentiate between true and false labor to provide appropriate patient education, prevent unnecessary hospital admissions, and ensure timely intervention when true labor begins.
Educating patients on these differences empowers them to recognize the onset of true labor and reduces anxiety associated with false alarms.
Accurate assessment prevents the maternal and fetal risks associated with delayed admission for true labor or the unnecessary interventions that might accompany a premature admission for false labor.
How to Approach the Question
Carefully read the question and identify the negative keyword 'NOT'. This indicates you must find the option that is NOT a characteristic of true labor.
Evaluate each option against the known signs of true labor.
Analyze Option A: 'Progressive cervical dilation'. This is the definitive sign of true labor.
Analyze Option B: 'Irregular contractions that subside with rest'. True labor contractions are regular and intensify, not subside with rest. This is a sign of false labor.
Analyze Option C: 'Increasing contraction intensity'. This is a classic feature of progressing true labor.
Analyze Option D: 'Regular contractions'. A regular pattern is a key sign of true labor.
Concept Tested & Keywords
Concept Tested: Differentiation between True and False Labor
Stem keywords: true labour, sign
Lead-in keywords: NOT
Negative lead-in flag: The question asks to identify the option that is NOT a sign of true labor.
Question ID
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Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-2026 (Shift -3rd)
Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.