A client in active labor receives a prescription for oxytocin 6 milliunits/minute intravenously (IV). The IV bag contains oxytocin 10 units in lactated Ringer’s 1,000 mL. How many mL/hour should the nurse program the infusion pump to deliver? (Enter numerical value only.)

Choice A rationale

Epidural placement requires assessing the current cervical dilation and fetal station. Without this information, premature epidural placement can impede labor progress or mask signs of complications.

Choice B rationale

A bolus of intravenous fluids is necessary before epidural anesthesia to prevent hypotension. However, assessing cervical dilation first ensures that it is appropriate to proceed with pain management.

Choice C rationale

Decreasing the oxytocin infusion rate is not the initial priority. The current cervical dilation and effacement need to be assessed to determine the appropriate management of labor and pain control.

Choice D rationale

Determining current cervical dilation is the first action to evaluate labor progress and make informed decisions regarding pain management and epidural placement, ensuring safe and effective care.

Acidemia: Acidemia refers to an abnormal acidity in the blood (pH < 7.35). Prolonged abnormal FHR patterns can indicate insufficient oxygen delivery to the fetus, leading to anaerobic metabolism and the production of lactic acid, causing acidemia. The normal fetal pH is around 7.30-7.35.

Hypoxemia: Hypoxemia is a reduced level of oxygen in the blood. Abnormal FHR patterns may signal that the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen, potentially due to cord compression, placental insufficiency, or other factors affecting oxygen transfer. Normal oxygen saturation for a fetus is generally around 30-70%.

Hypoxia: Hypoxia is a condition where there is insufficient oxygen available to meet the metabolic needs of the fetus. Abnormal FHR patterns can indicate ongoing or impending hypoxia, which can lead to severe fetal distress and compromise. It is crucial to monitor and address such conditions promptly.

Rationale for Incorrect Answers:

Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia refers to low blood glucose levels (typically < 45 mg/dL in newborns). Abnormal FHR patterns are not directly associated with changes in glucose metabolism. Rather, hypoglycemia in neonates is often related to maternal diabetes, prematurity, or other metabolic disturbances.

Meconium Stool: Meconium-stained amniotic fluid is a possible indicator of fetal distress but is not a direct result of abnormal FHR patterns. Meconium passage may be associated with post-term pregnancy, fetal hypoxia, or other factors, but the direct consequences of abnormal FHR patterns are more specifically related to oxygenation and acid-base status.

Maternal Hypotension: Maternal hypotension, or low blood pressure (typically < 90/60 mm Hg), is a maternal condition that can affect fetal well-being if severe and prolonged. However, it is not a direct result of abnormal FHR patterns. Instead, maternal hypotension can contribute to abnormal FHR by impairing uteroplacental perfusion.