A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and notes late decelerations in the FHR on the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Change the client's position.
Palpate the uterus to assess for tachysystole.
Increase the client's IV infusion rate.
Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
When late decelerations are noted in the fetal heart rate (FHR) tracing, it indicates that the fetal oxygen supply may be compromised. The nurse should first change the client's position, such as moving her to the left lateral position or a hands-and-knees position, to improve uteroplacental blood flow and relieve pressure on the vena cava.
Choice B rationale:
Palpating the uterus to assess for tachysystole is not the priority action when late decelerations are observed. Tachysystole refers to excessively frequent uterine contractions and may contribute to fetal distress, but the immediate concern is addressing the decelerations.
Choice C rationale:
Increasing the client's IV infusion rate may not address the underlying cause of late decelerations. While maintaining hydration is important, it's not the first action to take in this situation.
Choice D rationale:
Administering oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask may be beneficial for the client and fetus, but it is not the first action to take. The nurse should address the position change first to improve oxygenation through better blood flow before considering supplemental oxygen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hormonal changes play a significant role in postpartum depression. After childbirth, there is a rapid decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can lead to mood fluctuations and depressive symptoms. Understanding this hormonal aspect is crucial for the nurse to address postpartum depression risk factors.
Choice B rationale:
Increased social support systems would be considered a protective factor against postpartum depression rather than a risk factor. Having strong social support can help mitigate the risk of developing postpartum depression.
Choice C rationale:
High self-esteem is not typically a risk factor for postpartum depression. In fact, individuals with higher self-esteem may be more resilient in coping with the challenges of postpartum period.
Choice D rationale:
Being a mother of two other children is not inherently a risk factor for postpartum depression. While having multiple children can be demanding, it does not directly increase the risk of developing postpartum depression. The hormonal changes and individual circumstances play more significant roles.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should discontinue the oxytocin infusion if the client's contraction frequency is every 3 minutes. Frequent contractions may lead to uterine hyperstimulation, which can reduce fetal blood flow and oxygenation, potentially causing fetal distress. Normal contraction frequency during labor is typically every 2 to 5 minutes.
Choice B rationale:
Contraction duration of 100 seconds is not an indication to discontinue the oxytocin infusion. The duration of contractions can vary during labor, and 100 seconds is within the normal range of contraction duration, which is usually 45 to 90 seconds.
Choice C rationale:
Fetal heart rate with moderate variability is not an indication to discontinue the oxytocin infusion. Moderate variability in fetal heart rate is a reassuring sign, indicating a healthy fetal response to labor. It shows that the fetus is tolerating the contractions well and is not experiencing fetal distress.
Choice D rationale:
A fetal heart rate of 118/min is not an indication to discontinue the oxytocin infusion. The normal fetal heart rate range is typically between 110 to 160 beats per minute, and a heart rate of 118/min falls within this normal range. However, if the fetal heart rate deviates significantly from the normal range or shows signs of distress, further assessment and intervention are required.
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