A nurse is caring for a client who is at 33 weeks of gestation and has pre-term labor.
The client reports a sudden gush of fluid from her vagina.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Assess fetal heart rate and activity
Perform a nitrazine test on the fluid
Administer oxytocin (Pitocin) IV infusion
Place the client in Trendelenburg position
The Correct Answer is A
Assess fetal heart rate and activity.
The nurse should identify that a client who reports a sudden gush of fluid from her vagina is at risk for premature rupture of membranes (PROM), which can lead to infection, cord prolapse, and fetal distress. Therefore, the priority action is to assess the fetal heart rate and activity to monitor for signs of hypoxia or distress.
Choice B is wrong because performing a nitrazine test on the fluid is not the first action. A nitrazine test can confirm the presence of amniotic fluid by detecting its alkaline pH, but it is not as urgent as assessing the fetal well-being.
Choice C is wrong because administering oxytocin (Pitocin) IV infusion is contraindicated in this situation. Oxytocin is used to induce or augment labor, but it can cause uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, and placental abruption if given to a client who has PROM.
Choice D is wrong because placing the client in Trendelenburg position is not recommended for a client who has PROM. Trendelenburg position can increase the risk of cord prolapse and aspiration in this situation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Encouraging the parents to touch and talk to the infant through the incubator ports can promote bonding between the infant and the parents.Bonding is the intense attachment that develops between parents and their baby, and it is essential for the baby’s social and cognitive development.Touch and communication are some of the ways that babies bond with their parents.
Choice B is wrong because limiting the parents’ visitation time can disrupt the bonding process and make the parents feel less involved in their baby’s care.
Choice C is wrong because eye contact is another way of bonding with babies, and it can help them feel secure and loved.
Choice D is wrong because holding and feeding the infant are also important ways of bonding, and they should not be restricted unless medically necessary.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Monitor vital signs and neurological status frequently.
This is because intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a common and serious complication of prematurity that can lead to hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.Monitoring vital signs and neurological status can help detect changes in intracranial pressure, bleeding, and infection.
Choice B is wrong because antibiotics are not indicated for IVH unless there is evidence of infection.
Choice C is wrong because elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees can increase the risk of IVH by reducing cerebral perfusion pressure and causing venous congestion.
Choice D is wrong because supplemental oxygen is not recommended for IVH unless there is hypoxia or respiratory distress.Excessive oxygen can cause oxidative stress and vasoconstriction, which can worsen IVH.
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