A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has a spontaneous rupture of membranes. The nurse notes that the umbilical cord is protruding from the client's vagina.
After calling for help, which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Use fingers to exert upward pressure on the presenting part.
Administer a tocolytic medication.
Apply oxygen via facemask to the client.
Wrap the cord in a sterile towel and moisten with warm sterile normal saline.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should use fingers to exert upward pressure on the presenting part to relieve cord compression, which is the immediate priority in this emergency situation.
Choice B rationale:
Administering a tocolytic medication is not the immediate priority. It may be done later to inhibit uterine contractions.
Choice C rationale:
Applying oxygen to the client is important, but it’s not the first action. The nurse needs to relieve cord compression first.
Choice D rationale:
Wrapping the cord in a sterile towel and moistening with warm sterile normal saline is important, but it’s not the first action. The nurse needs to relieve cord compression first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Changing the perineal pad once daily could lead to infection, which would delay wound healing.
Choice B rationale:
Witch hazel pads are often used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in healing.
Choice C rationale:
Cleaning the perineum with a squeeze bottle after urinating helps to keep the area clean and promote healing.
Choice D rationale:
A well-approximated suture line indicates that the wound edges are close together, which is conducive to healing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Giving oxytocin 20 units IV bolus is incorrect. Oxytocin is used to stimulate uterine contractions, not to stop bleeding.
Choice B rationale:
Performing a fundal massage is incorrect. This is done to stimulate uterine contractions, not to stop bleeding.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing for abdominal tenderness is incorrect. This is not a priority action when a client is exhibiting a large amount of vaginal bleeding.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining serial hemoglobin and hematocrit is correct. These lab tests will help determine the extent of blood loss and guide treatment.
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