A nurse is caring for a client who was just diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy and does not require surgery.
Which of the following medications can the nurse expect to administer?

Choice A rationale

Brisk patellar deep tendon reflexes can indicate central nervous system irritability, which might suggest conditions like preeclampsia or eclampsia if accompanied by other symptoms. It's critical to assess and monitor for further complications.

Choice B rationale

A moderate amount of lochia on the perineal pad over 2 hours is normal postpartum bleeding and does not typically indicate an immediate concern if within expected ranges.

Choice C rationale

A fundus at the level of the umbilicus is an expected finding 4 hours postpartum and indicates normal uterine involution. It is not a priority concern at this stage.

Choice D rationale

Approximated edges of an episiotomy indicate that the incision is healing properly without signs of infection or dehiscence. This is a normal and expected finding in the postpartum period.

Choice A rationale

Uteroplacental insufficiency leads to late decelerations, which are characterized by a gradual decrease in fetal heart rate after the peak of a contraction. This indicates compromised blood flow between the uterus and placenta, affecting the fetus.

Choice B rationale

Umbilical cord compression usually causes variable decelerations, not late decelerations.

Choice C rationale

Maternal bradycardia does not cause changes in fetal heart rate patterns like late decelerations.

Choice D rationale

Fetal head compression causes early decelerations, which coincide with contractions, not late decelerations.