A multigravida at 41-weeks gestation is receiving an oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion for induction of labor.
The nurse notes the fetal heart rate (FHR) drops sharply from the baseline for 30 seconds during the peak of a contraction and then returns to the baseline before the end of the contraction.
What action should the nurse implement at this time?
Administer 10 L of oxygen via face mask.
Place the client on her left side.
Discontinue the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion.
Notify the healthcare provider.
The Correct Answer is C
Discontinue the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion. This is because the fetal heart rate (FHR) drops sharply from the baseline for 30 seconds during the peak of a contraction and then returns to the baseline before the end of the contraction indicate a late deceleration, which is a sign of fetal hypoxia. Oxytocin is a drug that stimulates uterine contractions and can cause uterine hyperstimulation, which reduces blood flow to the placenta and the fetus. By stopping the oxytocin infusion, the nurse can reduce the frequency and intensity of contractions and improve fetal oxygenation.
Choice A is wrong because administering oxygen via facemask may not be enough to reverse fetal hypoxia if oxytocin is still being infused. Choice B is wrong because placing the client on her left side may improve maternal blood flow to the placenta, but it will not reduce the effects of oxytocin on uterine activity.
Choice D is wrong because notifying the healthcare provider is not the most urgent action at this time. The nurse should first discontinue the oxytocin infusion and then notify the healthcare provider.
Normal ranges for FHR are 110 to 160 beats per minute, with a baseline variability of 6 to 25 beats per minute.
Normal ranges for uterine contractions are 2 to 5 contractions in 10 minutes, lasting
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Encouraging frequent breastfeeding.
This is because breastfeeding provides glucose to the newborn baby, which can help prevent or treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).Hypoglycemia can cause problems such as shakiness, blue tint to the skin, and breathing and feeding problems.
Choice A is wrong because administering IV insulin would lower the blood sugar level even more, which could be dangerous for the baby.
Choice C is wrong because monitoring blood pressure is not directly related to hypoglycemia.
Blood pressure may be affected by other factors such as stress, infection, or dehydration.
Choice D is wrong because administering a hypertonic saline solution would increase the sodium level in the blood, which could cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
A hypertonic saline solution is not a source of glucose for the baby.
Normal ranges for blood glucose levels in newborns are between 47 to 85 mg/dL.Hypoglycemia is defined as blood glucose below 47 mg/dL.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Jitteriness and poor feeding are common signs of hypoglycemia in a newborn.
Hypoglycemia is when the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood is too low.
Glucose is the main source of fuel for the brain and the body.In a newborn baby, low blood sugar can cause problems such as shakiness, blue tint to the skin, and breathing and feeding problems.
Choice A is wrong because hypertension and bradycardia are not typical symptoms of hypoglycemia in a newborn.
They may indicate other conditions such as heart problems or infection.
Choice B is wrong because diarrhea and vomiting are not specific symptoms of hypoglycemia in a newborn.
They may be caused by many other factors such as infection, food intolerance, or gastroesophageal reflux.
Choice D is wrong because hyperactivity and irritability are not usual symptoms of hypoglycemia in a newborn.
They may be signs of other conditions such as pain, hunger, or overstimulation.
Normal ranges for blood glucose levels in newborns vary depending on the age, gestational age, and feeding status of the baby.Most doctors consider blood glucose that is below 47 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) to be the definition of hypoglycemia in newborns.
However, some babies may need higher levels to prevent brain injury.
A doctor will monitor the blood glucose levels of a newborn at risk for hypoglycemia and treat accordingly.
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