A nurse in the labor and delivery unit is caring for a client who is undergoing external fetal monitoring. The nurse observes that the fetal heart rate begins to slow after the start of a contraction and the lowest rate occurs after the peak of the contraction. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Administer oxygen using a nonrebreather mask.

Elevate the client's legs.

Place the client in the lateral position.

Increase the rate of maintenance IV infusion.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A)   Administer oxygen using a nonrebreather mask: While oxygen may be necessary if there are signs of fetal distress, the priority action in this situation is to reposition the client and relieve potential cord compression.
B)   Elevate the client's legs: Elevating the client's legs is not the most appropriate action in this situation and may not address the cause of the decelerations.
C)   Place the client in the lateral position: This is the correct answer. The described pattern of the fetal heart rate (slowdown after the start of a contraction with the lowest rate occurring after the peak of the contraction) suggests late decelerations, which are often caused by uteroplacental
insufficiency or cord compression. Placing the client in the lateral position can help alleviate potential compression of the umbilical cord and improve fetal oxygenation.
D)   Increase the rate of maintenance IV infusion: Increasing the IV infusion rate may not be the most appropriate action for late decelerations. Repositioning the client is the priority in this situation.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A: Taking deep, cleansing breaths and breathing naturally is not the appropriate technique during the crowning phase of labor, as it can increase the risk of rapid birth and potential perineal trauma.

C: During a precipitous labor with the baby's head crowning, the nurse should encourage the mother to perform blowing or panting breaths during contractions. This technique helps to slow down the delivery process and allows the perineum to stretch gradually, reducing the risk of tearing or other trauma.

B: In the case of precipitous labor, actively pushing as hard as possible can increase the risk of rapid birth and potential complications for both the mother and the baby.

D: Slowpaced breathing patterns are not recommended during the crowning phase of labor, as they may not effectively control the birth process.

A. Administer a 500 mL bolus of 5% dextrose in water prior to the epidural administration. B. Inform the client that the anesthetic effect will last for approximately 6 hours. C. Obtain a 30 min electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) strip and prepare to give a bolus of Lactated Ringers solution prior to the epidural administration. D. Have the client stand very still at the bedside with her arms at her side.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A: Administering a 500 mL bolus of 5% dextrose in water is not necessary before the epidural administration, and it may not be recommended in active labor as it can increase the risk of fluid overload.

B: The duration of the anesthetic effect of the epidural can vary depending on the medication used, and it is not the nurse's priority during the preparation process.

C: Prior to administering epidural analgesia, the nurse should obtain a 30minute electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) strip to assess the fetal heart rate and monitor for any signs of fetal distress during the procedure.

D: Having the client stand very still with her arms at her side is not practical or necessary for epidural administration and could be uncomfortable for the client during labor.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is preparing a client who is in active labor for epidural analgesia. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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