A nurse is caring for a client who is gravida 3, para 2, and is in active labor. The fetal head is at 3+ station after a vaginal examination. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Observe for the presence of a nuchal cord.
Prepare to administer oxytocin.
Observe for crowning.
Apply fundal pressure.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Observe for the presence of a nuchal cord: While this is important, it is not specifically related to the finding of the fetal head at a certain station.
B. Prepare to administer oxytocin: Oxytocin is a hormone used to induce or augment labor, but there is no indication for its use based solely on the fetal head station.
C. Observe for crowning: The fetal head at 3+ station indicates significant descent, and crowning may occur soon. Crowning is the appearance of the fetal head at the vaginal opening and indicates that delivery is imminent.
D. Apply fundal pressure: Fundal pressure is not appropriate at this stage of labor and could cause harm.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Position the client on her side: Late decelerations are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, which may be improved by changing the maternal position to improve blood flow to the placenta.
B. Elevate the client's legs: Elevating the client's legs would not directly address the cause of late decelerations.
C. Increase the infusion rate of the IV fluid: While ensuring adequate hydration is important, it is not the priority action when late decelerations are noted.
D. Administer oxygen via a face mask: Oxygen administration may be necessary, but it is not the priority action. Positioning the client on her side to improve blood flow is the priority.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: At 7 cm dilation, the client is in active labor, and assisting her into a more comfortable position may not be appropriate at this stage. It is essential to observe for signs of impending birth and assess the progress of labor.
Choice B:Crowning is assessed only once full dilation occurs. At 7 cm, this is premature and distracts from interventions that prevent injury from early pushing.
Choice C:Panting or blowing helps suppress the urge to push until full dilation, protecting the cervix and reducing complications. This is the evidence-based intervention recommended in labor management guidelines.
Choice D: While emptying the bladder is generally recommended during labor to provide more room for the baby to descend, the client's current urge to push suggests that the baby is likely in a lower position, and it might not be safe or feasible to move the client to the bathroom.
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