A nurse is caring for a client in active labor who has meconium staining of the amniotic fluid. The nurse notes a reassuring fetal heart rate (FHR) tracing from the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform?

The correct answer is A. Emotional lability.

A. Emotional lability: Emotional lability refers to rapid and unpredictable changes in mood, with intense emotions shifting quickly from one extreme to another. It is a common aspect of the emotional adaptation to pregnancy and is often influenced by hormonal changes.

B. Focusing phase: The focusing phase is a concept related to the process of adapting to pregnancy. It involves the pregnant individual focusing on the reality of the pregnancy and incorporating the changes into their self-concept. While mood changes may occur during this phase, the client's statement more specifically reflects emotional lability.

C. Cognitive restructuring: Cognitive restructuring involves changing thought patterns to modify emotional responses. The client's statement does not necessarily indicate a deliberate process of changing thought patterns but rather describes the emotional swings often associated with pregnancy.

D. Couvade syndrome: Couvade syndrome refers to a phenomenon where a partner experiences symptoms that mimic pregnancy symptoms. It is not applicable in this context as the client is describing her own emotional experiences related to pregnancy.

Choice A Reason:

"I will get injections of the medication once daily until my labor stops." Terbutaline is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection or orally, but the frequency can vary. It is often given as needed or on a scheduled basis, depending on the healthcare provider's instructions. However, "once daily until labor stops" is not a typical approach.

Choice B Reason:

"My blood sugar may be low while I'm on this medication." While terbutaline can affect glucose metabolism, it is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) rather than hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Choice C Reason:

"I will have blood tests because my potassium might decrease." Terbutaline, a beta-2 adrenergic agonist, can potentially lead to hypokalemia (a decrease in potassium levels). Monitoring potassium levels through blood tests is important during terbutaline therapy.

Choice D Reason:

"My blood pressure may increase while I'm on this medication." Terbutaline is known to cause cardiovascular side effects, but an increase in blood pressure is not a common effect. It is more associated with tachycardia (increased heart rate) and potential hypotension. Monitoring blood pressure is still important, but an increase is less likely compared to other cardiovascular effects.