A nurse in a labor unit is admitting a patient who reports experiencing painful contractions. The nurse determines that the contractions last for 1 minute and occur every 3 minutes.The nurse records the following vital signs: fetal heart rate of 130/min, maternal heart rate of 128/min, and maternal blood pressure of 92/54 mm Hg. What should the nurse prioritize doing next?
Notify the provider of the findings.
Ask the patient if she needs pain medication.
Have the patient void.
Position the patient with one hip elevated.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is Choice D
Choice A rationale: Notifying the provider is important but not the first priority in this situation. The maternal hypotension (BP 92/54 mm Hg) and elevated maternal heart rate (128/min) suggest decreased perfusion, which can compromise uteroplacental blood flow. Immediate intervention is required before notifying the provider, especially if positioning can restore circulation and fetal oxygenation. Waiting to call without correcting the underlying cause may result in fetal distress or worsening maternal status.
Choice B rationale: While uncontrolled pain may contribute to elevated maternal heart rate, the hypotension and tachycardia suggest a more urgent hemodynamic imbalance. Pain management may become appropriate after stabilizing maternal circulation. Focusing on pain relief first delays essential interventions to improve perfusion, risking fetal compromise due to inadequate uteroplacental oxygen delivery. The fetal heart rate of 130/min is reassuring, but maternal circulation must be prioritized to sustain it.
Choice C rationale: A full bladder can contribute to uterine displacement, but there is no indication in the scenario that bladder distention is an issue. Voiding may be done later but does not address the immediate concern of maternal hypotension and compensatory tachycardia. Uteroplacental perfusion depends heavily on maternal blood pressure, and bladder status has secondary importance in the acute phase of circulatory compromise.
Choice D rationale: Elevating one hip improves venous return and cardiac output by relieving pressure on the inferior vena cava, which is compressed by the gravid uterus in the supine position. This correction reduces hypotension and restores uteroplacental perfusion. The maneuver is a first-line response for maternal hypotension in labor, helping stabilize both mother and fetus quickly. Fetal oxygen delivery depends on adequate maternal perfusion, which this position supports.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While the anterior fontanel being soft and level is an important observation in a newborn, it is not typically used as part of a gestational age assessment.
Choice B rationale
The presence of plantar creases covering 3 of the sole is a typical finding in a full-term newborn and is used as part of a gestational age assessment.
Choice C rationale
Acrocyanosis, or bluish discoloration of the hands and feet, is a common finding in newborns, especially shortly after birth. However, it is not typically used as part of a gestational age assessment.
Choice D rationale
Vernix caseosa in the inguinal creases can be a sign of a preterm newborn, as vernix caseosa is typically present in larger amounts in preterm newborns. However, it is not typically used as part of a gestational age assessment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the immediate next step. While it may be necessary in some cases, the priority is to address the client’s excessive bleeding, which is a sign of postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
Administering oxytocin by continuous IV infusion is a common intervention for postpartum hemorrhage. However, it is not the immediate next step. The nurse should first attempt to massage the client’s fundus to promote contractions and control bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Massaging the client’s fundus is the correct next step. The client’s symptoms indicate postpartum hemorrhage, a serious condition that can lead to shock and other complications. Fundal massage often helps the uterus contract and can stop the bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Tilting the client onto her right side with her legs elevated to at least 30 degrees is not the immediate next step. This position can help improve venous return but does not directly address the cause of the client’s symptoms.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.