North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Which term defines the rupture of membranes prior to the onset of labor?

1. Prolonged rupture of membranes

2. Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

3. Preterm premature rupture of membranes

4. Labor induction

The correct answer is: Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

The term that defines the rupture of membranes prior to the onset of labor is Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM). This condition is significant in obstetrics, as it involves the breaking of the amniotic sac before contractions begin. PROM can occur at any point after 37 weeks of gestation and before labor starts. It is important to identify this condition because it can lead to complications, such as an increased risk of infection or labor that may need to be induced if sufficient time passes without labor starting naturally. Understanding this term is crucial for midwifery practice as it helps in monitoring the health of both the mother and the baby following the rupture. While the other terms mentioned in the options also relate to membrane rupture, they have specific contexts that differ from general PROM. For example, the term "prolonged rupture of membranes" refers to PROM that has lasted for an extended time and can carry additional risks. "Preterm premature rupture of membranes" specifically refers to membrane rupture that occurs before 37 weeks of gestation, also with its particular set of concerns. Lastly, "labor induction" describes a process initiated to stimulate uterine contractions, which does not directly reflect the timing of membrane rupture itself. By understanding the