Which method is used to assess the intensity of a contraction?

The intensity of a contraction is best assessed through palpation with one hand over the fundus. This method allows the nurse to physically feel the uterine muscle's tension during a contraction. By placing a hand on the top of the uterus (the fundus), the nurse can determine whether the contraction is mild, moderate, or strong based on how firm the uterus feels.

Palpation provides immediate and direct feedback on the contraction's strength, which is crucial for monitoring labor progress and the well-being of both the mother and fetus. This hands-on approach is a standard practice in obstetrics and is used during labor assessments to ensure that the contractions are effective and appropriate for the stage of labor.

Other methods such as monitoring fetal heart rate, visual observation of maternal breathing, and ultrasound measurements do not directly provide information about the intensity of uterine contractions. Instead, they might offer insights into fetal well-being or other aspects of labor but lack the specificity needed to gauge the strength of contractions accurately.