When a primigravida reports that her "water broke," what is the nurse's priority assessment?

The priority assessment when a primigravida reports that her "water broke" is to assess the frequency of uterine contractions. This evaluation is crucial because the rupture of membranes often signals the onset of labor. Understanding the frequency and strength of contractions helps the healthcare provider determine the stage of labor the patient is in and what interventions may be necessary.

Monitoring contractions is vital as it can provide insight into the labor process and help identify any potential issues, such as abnormal fetal heart rates or prolonged labor. Knowing how often contractions occur can indicate whether the patient is in the early, active, or transitional phase of labor, which can affect the management strategy and the need for further assessments and interventions.

While other assessments, such as confirming if the membranes have truly ruptured, are important, understanding uterine activity directly influences maternal and fetal safety and care plans. Therefore, prioritizing contraction assessment allows for timely decision-making regarding ongoing labor management.