RRB Nsg. Superintendent-2026 (Shift -3rd)
Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Easy

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 explanation — 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

Q1xd1cEt2IUn_X2AUIQvND

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