During a prenatal visit, a client at 30 weeks gestation reports persistent heartburn during the past two weeks.
The nurse notes the client has 3+ bilateral, pitting, pedal edema.
Which action should the nurse implement?

Stopping oxygen per cannula after uterine hyperstimulation and subsequent contraction reduction is not appropriate. Oxygen should be continued to ensure fetal oxygenation, particularly after a period of stress caused by frequent contractions. Discontinuing oxygen too soon may compromise fetal well-being.

Choice B rationale

Checking for clonus in both feet is unrelated to the management of uterine contractions post-oxytocin administration. Clonus assessment is used in evaluating neuromuscular function, often in conditions such as preeclampsia, but not for monitoring uterine activity or response to oxytocin.

Choice C rationale

Notifying the nursery about the client's response is important for continuity of care but does not address the immediate need to manage the uterine contractions. The primary focus should be on stabilizing uterine activity before updating other departments.

Choice D rationale

Restarting the oxytocin infusion rate per protocol is the correct intervention after ensuring that the contractions have reduced to a safe frequency and duration. This approach helps to maintain labor progress while minimizing the risk of hyperstimulation and fetal distress. The nurse should follow the hospital's guidelines for oxytocin titration.

1. Blood pressure: 170/98 mm Hg: Abnormal. A blood pressure reading of 170/98 mm Hg is high, especially in the context of pregnancy, where it may indicate gestational hypertension or the potential for preeclampsia. This needs to be monitored closely.
2. Pain rating: 5/10 with contractions: Normal. A pain rating of 5/10 is typical during labor, especially at this stage of dilation (4 cm). Pain management can be adjusted based on the client's preference and progress.
3. Variable decelerations: 20 seconds: Normal. Occasional variable decelerations (drops in fetal heart rate that last for less than 30 seconds) can occur during labor, often due to umbilical cord compression. As long as the decelerations are brief and not repetitive or severe, they are typically not concerning.
4. Magnesium sulfate infusion ongoing: Normal. The magnesium sulfate infusion is prescribed to manage potential complications, likely to prevent preterm labor or to prevent seizures in the event of preeclampsia. Its ongoing use is appropriate for this client at this stage.