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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Preparing for an amnioinfusion is not the first-line action. It may be considered if decelerations do not resolve with initial measures such as maternal repositioning.
Choice B reason:
Administering oxygen is a subsequent measure if initial interventions like repositioning do not improve the FHR. Oxygen is typically given at 8-10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask to increase fetal oxygenation.
Choice C reason:
Discontinuing oxytocin is important if the cause of decelerations is uterine hyperstimulation. However, repositioning the client should precede this action to quickly address potential umbilical cord compression.
Choice D reason:
This is the first action to take because it can quickly alleviate potential compression of the umbilical cord, which is often the cause of variable decelerations. It may be considered if decelerations do not resolve with initial measures such as maternal repositioning.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assessing for bladder distention is important for postpartum clients, especially those who have undergone perineal trauma during childbirth. However, it is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. The sitz bath is usually done to promote healing and comfort, and monitoring pulse rate takes precedence to identify any adverse reactions.
Choice B rationale:
Pulse rate should be the priority assessment during a sitz bath for a postpartum client. Sitz baths can cause vasodilation, leading to a potential drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or dizziness. Monitoring the pulse rate helps identify any cardiovascular changes or adverse reactions.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory rate is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. It is essential to monitor, but it is less likely to be affected directly by the sitz bath compared to the pulse rate and cardiovascular changes.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring the color of lochia is essential for assessing postpartum bleeding and uterine healing. However, during a sitz bath, the priority assessment should be focused on cardiovascular changes and any adverse reactions the client might experience.
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