A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who is postpartum and has preeclampsi

A. Administering oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask is an important intervention, but changing the client's position is the priority action when late decelerations are observed. Oxygen administration can follow, but optimizing uteroplacental perfusion through changing position is crucial.

B. Changing the client's position is the correct first action.

Repositioning the client, particularly from a supine to a side-lying position, can help alleviate compression on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the uterus, reducing the likelihood of late decelerations.

C. Applying a fetal scalp electrode is not the initial action when late decelerations are noted. Repositioning the client should be attempted first to address potential issues related to uteroplacental perfusion.

D. Increasing the rate of the intravenous (IV) infusion might not directly address the issue of late decelerations. It's important to focus on maternal positioning first to improve blood flow to the uterus.

The correct answer is B. A distended bladder reduces pelvic space needed for birth.

A. A distended bladder itself is not typically traumatized by pelvic exams. However, a full bladder can impede the progress of labor and may affect the accuracy of pelvic exams.

B. This statement is accurate. A distended bladder can reduce the available pelvic space needed for the descent of the baby during labor. An empty bladder allows the fetal head to engage more easily in the pelvis.

C. A full bladder is not directly associated with an increased risk for fetal trauma. The primary concern is the impact on pelvic space and the progress of labor.

D. While a full bladder can contribute to urinary tract infections, it is not the primary reason for encouraging the client to avoid a distended bladder during labor.