A client at 37 weeks gestation presents with contractions every 3 to 4 minutes, lasting 60 seconds.
The fetal heart rate is noted to be 140 bpm, and no abnormal fetal movements are observed.
The client reports no pain and normal laboratory results.
Which action should the nurse implement first?
Administer oxygen.
Check cervical dilation.
Start an intravenous fluid bolus.
Prepare for immediate delivery.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen would not be the priority as the fetal heart rate is normal and there are no abnormal fetal movements or signs of distress. Oxygen administration is typically reserved for cases where there is evidence of fetal hypoxia or distress.
Choice B rationale
Checking cervical dilation is essential as it provides critical information about the progress of labor and helps in determining the next steps in management. It ensures that the labor is progressing appropriately and identifies if there is a need for any medical interventions.
Choice C rationale
Starting an intravenous fluid bolus would not be the first action in this scenario as the client does not show signs of dehydration or hypotension. Fluid bolus is generally reserved for cases where there is evidence of hypovolemia or to support hemodynamic stability.
Choice D rationale
Preparing for immediate delivery is not necessary at this stage as there are no signs of fetal distress or urgent complications. The client is only 37 weeks gestation and regular assessment is crucial to ensure timely and appropriate interventions without premature actions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hypoglycemia is a common concern for newborns with low birth weight. Their glucose reserves are limited, and they have a higher metabolic rate, making them prone to low blood sugar levels.
Choice B rationale
Polycythemia, an increased red blood cell count, is not typically a primary concern based on the measurements given. It is more commonly associated with conditions like delayed cord clamping or maternal diabetes.
Choice C rationale
Hyperthermia is not a primary concern based on the provided measurements. Thermoregulation issues might arise, but initial focus should be on managing glucose levels.
Choice D rationale
Hyperbilirubinemia, or jaundice, can occur in newborns but is not the immediate priority based on the given physical findings. Monitoring and managing blood sugar levels is more critical in the initial hours after birth.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Palpating the suprapubic area to assess fetal head position is not relevant to identifying the source of fluid leakage. This technique is used to evaluate fetal engagement in the pelvis, particularly near term, but it does not help in determining whether the fluid leakage is amniotic fluid or urine.
Choice B rationale
Scanning the bladder for urinary retention is unrelated to identifying the nature of fluid leakage. A bladder scan is useful for detecting residual urine volume in the bladder, often post-voiding, and is typically used in cases of urinary retention or post-operative care.
Choice C rationale
Testing the fluid with a nitrazine strip is a standard method to distinguish amniotic fluid from urine or vaginal secretions. Amniotic fluid has a higher pH (usually between 7.0 and 7.5), causing the nitrazine strip to turn blue, whereas urine and vaginal secretions usually have a lower pH, resulting in a yellow or green color on the strip.
Choice D rationale
Inserting a straight urinary catheter to drain the bladder is an invasive procedure that does not directly identify the source of fluid leakage. This technique is typically used to relieve urinary retention or to collect a sterile urine specimen, not for diagnosing amniotic fluid leakage.
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