A nurse is evaluating the fetal heart rate tracing of a client who is in pre-term labor and receiving magnesium sulfate.
The nurse should identify that which of the following patterns indicates a potential adverse effect of the medication on the fetus?
Accelerations
Early decelerations
Variable decelerations
Absent variability
The Correct Answer is D
According to the search results, magnesium sulfate can have a negative effect on the fetal heart rate (FHR) by lowering the baseline, decreasing the variability, and reducing the reactivity or acceleration pattern. Absent variability means that there is no fluctuation in the FHR and it indicates fetal hypoxia or acidosis.
This is a potential adverse effect of magnesium sulfate on the fetus and requires immediate intervention.
Choice A. Accelerations is wrong because accelerations are transient increases in the FHR that indicate fetal well-being. They are not affected by magnesium sulfate.
Choice B. Early decelerations is wrong because early decelerations are decreases in the FHR that occur with uterine contractions and are caused by fetal head compression. They are benign and do not indicate fetal distress. They are not associated with magnesium sulfate.
Choice C. Variable decelerations is wrong because variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the FHR that vary in shape, duration, and timing and are caused by umbilical cord compression.
They may or may not indicate fetal compromise.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Terbutaline can cause low potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and cardiac arrhythmias.
This is a potential adverse effect of the medication that should be reported to the provider.
Choice A is wrong because tachycardia is a common side effect of terbutaline that does not usually require medical attention.
Terbutaline works by stimulating beta-adrenergic receptors, which can increase the heart rate.
Choice B is wrong because hypotension is not a typical side effect of terbutaline.Terbutaline can actually cause elevated blood pressure in some cases.
Choice C is wrong because hyperglycemia is not a common side effect of terbutaline.Terbutaline can cause transient hyperglycemia in pregnant women, but this is not a reason to stop the medication.
Normal ranges for potassium are 3.5-5.0 mEq/L and for blood glucose are 70-110 mg/dL.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Regular uterine contractions occurring every 15 minutes.
This finding suggests that the client may have placental abruption, which is a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention.Placental abruption is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, which can cause heavy bleeding, pain, and fetal distress.
Choice B is wrong because low back pain and pelvic pressure are common symptoms of preterm labor, which is not as urgent as placental abruption.
Choice C is wrong because a change in vaginal discharge is not a specific sign of any complication and may be normal in pregnancy.
Choice D is wrong because rupture of membranes is not a priority finding in this case, unless it is associated with infection or cord prolapse.
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