A nurse is preparing to administer an opioid analgesic to a client who is in active labor.Which of the following assessments should the nurse perform? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale

Preparing for a cesarean birth is not an immediate necessity unless there are complications that warrant such intervention. Cesarean births are typically reserved for situations where vaginal delivery poses a risk to the mother or the baby.

Choice B rationale

Administering IV antibiotic prophylaxis is critical in preventing potential infections during the labor process, especially given the early gestation period. This helps in safeguarding both the mother and the fetus from infections like group B streptococcus.

Choice C rationale

Obtaining a vaginal culture is generally done to check for infections such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections. However, it is not an immediate priority when the patient is already in active labor.

Choice D rationale

Administering metronidazole orally is used to treat bacterial infections but is not an immediate action required in this scenario. Metronidazole may not be the most suitable choice during labor as it does not provide immediate infection prevention.

Choice A rationale

Suctioning the mouth and nose ensures that the airway is clear of any meconium-stained fluid, which can cause respiratory issues in the newborn if inhaled.

Choice B rationale

While skin-to-skin contact is beneficial for bonding and temperature regulation, ensuring the airway is clear is a higher immediate priority.

Choice C rationale

Placing the newborn under a radiant warmer helps maintain body temperature but is secondary to ensuring the airway is clear of meconium-stained fluid.

Choice D rationale

Tactile stimulation is important for encouraging breathing, but first ensuring the airway is clear takes precedence.