Exhibits

The nurse reviews the entries in the medical record.

The nurse is preparing the client for a blood transfusion. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.

A. Applying the largest cuff available is important for accurate measurement, but it won’t help with
difficulty auscultating sounds.
B. The palpatory method allows the nurse to estimate systolic blood pressure by palpating the pulse while inflating the cuff, which can help avoid difficulties with auscultation.
C. Placing the arm above the level of the heart could result in inaccurate blood pressure readings.
D. Deflating the cuff too quickly can result in inaccurate readings and may also cause discomfort.

1. Administer oxytocin
Unanticipated: Oxytocin is typically used to induce labor or augment labor by stimulating uterine contractions. Since the client is already experiencing preterm labor, administering oxytocin could exacerbate contractions, leading to a more rapid progression of labor, which is not desired at 33 weeks gestation.
2. Administer terbutaline
Anticipated: Terbutaline is a tocolytic agent used to stop preterm labor by relaxing the uterus and inhibiting contractions. Given that the client is experiencing preterm labor (with regular contractions), this medication would be used to attempt to stop labor and delay delivery, which is an appropriate action for a 33-week pregnant client with early labor signs.

3. Administer betamethasone
Anticipated: Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that promotes lung maturity in preterm infants. At 33 weeks gestation, it is common to administer betamethasone if preterm labor is suspected, as it enhances fetal lung development and reduces the risk of respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn.
4. Maintain bed rest with bathroom privileges
Anticipated: Bed rest is often recommended for clients with preterm labor to reduce uterine activity and promote fetal well-being. While some studies suggest limited benefits, it is still a common non- pharmacological approach to manage preterm labor and reduce the risk of premature delivery.
5. Limit fluid intake to 3,000 mL/day
Unanticipated: There is no indication that the client is at risk for fluid overload or hyponatremia (which would require fluid restriction). In fact, hydration is often encouraged in preterm labor to prevent dehydration, which can worsen uterine contractions.
6. Place client in supine position
Unanticipated: Supine position is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester, due to the risk of supine hypotensive syndrome (compression of the vena cava, leading to reduced blood flow to the uterus and fetus). In fact, lateral positioning (e.g., left side-lying) is recommended for optimal circulation.