A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant and is at the end of her first trimester. The nurse should place the Doppler ultrasound stethoscope in which of the following locations to begin assessing for the fetal heart tones (FHT)?

Choice A Reason:

"I will get injections of the medication once daily until my labor stops." Terbutaline is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection or orally, but the frequency can vary. It is often given as needed or on a scheduled basis, depending on the healthcare provider's instructions. However, "once daily until labor stops" is not a typical approach.

Choice B Reason:

"My blood sugar may be low while I'm on this medication." While terbutaline can affect glucose metabolism, it is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) rather than hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Choice C Reason:

"I will have blood tests because my potassium might decrease." Terbutaline, a beta-2 adrenergic agonist, can potentially lead to hypokalemia (a decrease in potassium levels). Monitoring potassium levels through blood tests is important during terbutaline therapy.

Choice D Reason:

"My blood pressure may increase while I'm on this medication." Terbutaline is known to cause cardiovascular side effects, but an increase in blood pressure is not a common effect. It is more associated with tachycardia (increased heart rate) and potential hypotension. Monitoring blood pressure is still important, but an increase is less likely compared to other cardiovascular effects.

The correct answer is C. Continuous contraction lasting 2 min.

A. Pressure on the perineum causing the client to bear down is a common sign in the later stages of labor when the cervix is fully dilated. It is not typically a cause for immediate concern during the admission phase.

B. Expulsion of clear fluid from the vagina may be amniotic fluid, which can indicate rupture of membranes. While important to note, it is not as urgent as a prolonged contraction.

C. Continuous contraction lasting 2 min is a concerning finding and should be reported first.

A contraction lasting 2 minutes is excessively long and may lead to decreased uterine blood flow, affecting fetal oxygenation. It requires prompt attention from the healthcare provider.

D. Expulsion of a blood-tinged mucous plug, also known as the "bloody show," is a common occurrence in early labor and is not as urgent as the prolonged contraction.