A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving oxytocin to augment labor. The nurse notes recurrent variable decelerations of the FHR. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Prepare the equipment necessary to initiate an amnioinfusion.
Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather face mask.
Discontinue the infusion of oxytocin.
Place the client in a left lateral position.
The Correct Answer is D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Hyporeactivity is not typically associated with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) NAS is characterized by increased irritability and signs of withdrawal, which are opposite to a hypo- reactive state.
Choice B rationale:
An excessive high-pitched cry is a hallmark sign of neonatal abstinence syndrome. Babies exposed to drugs like methadone during pregnancy can experience withdrawal symptoms, including a distinct high-pitched cry.
Choice C rationale:
Acrocyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the extremities, is a common finding in newborns and is not specific to NAS. It is caused by immature peripheral circulation and usually resolves on its own.
Choice D rationale:
A respiratory rate of 50/min is within the normal range for a newborn and is not a sign of neonatal abstinence syndrome. NAS symptoms are related to drug withdrawal and not respiratory issues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assisting the client to a sitz bath is not the priority action in this situation. The client has soaked two perineal pads in the past 30 minutes, indicating excessive bleeding, which requires immediate attention.
Choice B rationale:
Assessing the client's uterine tone is essential to determine if the uterus is contracting appropriately. Uterine atony, where the uterus fails to contract after childbirth, is a common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Assessing the tone helps identify this issue and allows for timely interventions.
Choice C rationale:
Encouraging the client to breastfeed may have benefits such as promoting uterine contractions through oxytocin release. However, the priority in this scenario is addressing the potential postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice D rationale:
Applying an ice pack to the client's perineum may provide comfort, but it does not address the concerning symptom of excessive bleeding and potential postpartum hemorrhage.
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