For a woman at 42 weeks gestation, which finding would require more assessment by the nurse?
Fetal heart rate of 118 beats/min
One fetal movement noted in a two-hour assessment by the mother
Cervix dilated 2 cm and 50% effaced
Score of 8 on the biophysical profile
The Correct Answer is B
A. Fetal heart rate of 118 beats/min. A fetal heart rate of 118 bpm is within the normal range of 110-160 bpm and does not necessarily indicate fetal distress. While continuous monitoring is important in post-term pregnancies, this finding alone does not require urgent assessment.
B. One fetal movement noted in a two-hour assessment by the mother. Decreased fetal movement is a concerning sign that requires further assessment. At 42 weeks gestation, the aging placenta may lead to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply, increasing the risk of fetal compromise. Normally, at least 10 movements should be felt within two hours. A significant decrease in movement could indicate fetal distress or hypoxia, requiring immediate evaluation with a non-stress test (NST) or biophysical profile (BPP).
C. Cervix dilated 2 cm and 50% effaced. A partially dilated and effaced cervix is expected in a post-term pregnancy and does not indicate fetal distress. It suggests that labor may be approaching but does not require additional urgent assessment.
D. Score of 8 on the biophysical profile. A biophysical profile (BPP) score of 8 out of 10 is reassuring and indicates normal fetal well-being. If the score were 4 or lower, it would require immediate intervention, but a score of 8 suggests adequate oxygenation and fetal health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. To prevent uterine atony. Suprapubic pressure is not used to prevent uterine atony. Uterine atony, which leads to postpartum hemorrhage, is managed through uterine massage and medications such as oxytocin.
B. To facilitate the delivery of the baby's head. The baby's head has already been delivered in shoulder dystocia. The emergency arises because the shoulders are stuck behind the pubic bone, requiring specific maneuvers to release them.
C. To facilitate the delivery of the baby's shoulders. Shoulder dystocia occurs when the anterior shoulder becomes impacted behind the maternal pubic bone, preventing delivery. Suprapubic pressure is applied to help dislodge the shoulder by compressing it downward, allowing it to pass under the pubic bone. This maneuver, along with the McRoberts position, is commonly used to resolve the dystocia.
D. To prepare for the third stage of labor. The third stage of labor refers to the delivery of the placenta, which occurs after the baby is born. Suprapubic pressure is specifically used to assist in the second stage of labor when shoulder dystocia occurs.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Perform vaginal exam and apply upward digital pressure to the presenting part. A prolapsed umbilical cord is an obstetric emergency that can lead to cord compression and fetal hypoxia. The priority intervention is for the nurse to manually lift the presenting part (usually the fetal head) off the cord to relieve pressure and restore blood flow. The nurse should maintain this position until an emergency cesarean section is performed.
B. Immediately turn the client to her side. Positioning changes, such as the knee-chest or Trendelenburg position, can help relieve pressure on the cord, but they are secondary to manually lifting the presenting part. While turning the client may assist, it is not the most immediate life-saving action.
C. Call the physician immediately. While notifying the provider is essential, relieving pressure on the umbilical cord takes priority. Delaying intervention to make a call could result in prolonged fetal hypoxia and compromise.
D. Place a moist, clean towel over the cord to prevent drying. Covering the cord with a moist towel helps prevent vasospasm and drying, but it does not relieve the compression that is cutting off oxygen to the fetus. The priority is to relieve pressure on the cord first before taking other measures.
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