The nurse asks a laboring client to lie on her left side. The appropriate rationale for this measure is to:
decrease the heart rate of the fetus
Aid the women while she pushes
prevent supine hypertension
prevent the client from falling out of bed
The Correct Answer is C
A) Decrease the heart rate of the fetus:
Lying on the left side can sometimes help improve fetal oxygenation, especially if there is a concern about reduced blood flow from compression of the inferior vena cava, which can occur when the mother lies on her back. However, the primary rationale for this position is to prevent supine hypotension, not specifically to decrease fetal heart rate. In fact, side-lying can promote better oxygen exchange, which can indirectly benefit the fetal heart rate.
B) Aid the women while she pushes:
While a left-side lying position may offer comfort during labor and can help with uterine positioning, it is not specifically intended to aid in the pushing phase. Positions such as squatting or hands-and-knees are generally more helpful during the pushing phase because they can facilitate effective pushing and help the baby descend into the birth canal. The left-side position is more about circulation and preventing hypotension.
C) Prevent supine hypertension:
Supine hypotension occurs when the pregnant woman lies flat on her back, which can compress the inferior vena cava and reduce blood return to the heart. This leads to a drop in blood pressure and can compromise both maternal and fetal circulation. The left-side position is recommended because it helps to prevent this compression and allows optimal blood flow to both the mother and fetus, improving oxygenation and circulation.
D) Prevent the client from falling out of bed:
While lying on the left side may make the woman feel more stable, the primary reason for this position is to prevent supine hypotension, not to prevent her from falling out of bed. The nurse would ensure safety by using appropriate bed rails and monitoring, but the primary concern is supporting optimal circulation, not preventing falls.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Decrease the client's IV fluids:
Sinusoidal fetal heart rate patterns are concerning and typically indicate severe fetal distress, which is often associated with conditions such as fetal anemia, hypoxia, or central nervous system (CNS) damage. Decreasing IV fluids is not an appropriate response to a sinusoidal pattern. The primary focus should be on fetal well-being, not fluid management, in this situation.
B) Prepare the client for an emergent birth:
This pattern is typically associated with severe fetal compromise and is an ominous sign. Immediate intervention is required, and emergent delivery may be necessary to prevent further fetal distress and potential harm. The nurse should promptly notify the healthcare provider and prepare the client for an emergency cesarean delivery or other urgent interventions.
C) Turn the client to a supine position:
The supine position is not recommended for managing fetal distress, as it may decrease uterine blood flow and worsen the situation, especially if the fetus is experiencing hypoxia. The appropriate intervention for addressing a sinusoidal heart rate pattern is not repositioning the client in a supine position, but rather preparing for emergency delivery and providing immediate support to stabilize both mother and fetus.
D) Document the findings:
While it is important to document any fetal heart rate pattern, sinusoidal patterns require immediate action. Documentation alone is not sufficient in this case, as it does not address the potential life-threatening situation for the fetus. The nurse should not delay action, and the focus should be on preparing for emergency birth and notifying the healthcare provider immediately.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Palmer grasp reflex:
The palmer grasp reflex is a primitive reflex in which a newborn will grasp an object placed in their hand. While this reflex is present at birth, it typically disappears by 5-6 months of age, not by 3-4 months. The Moro reflex, which is more related to startle and sudden movements, is the correct answer in this case.
B) Babinski reflex:
The Babinski reflex, in which the toes fan out when the sole of the foot is stroked, is present at birth but typically disappears by 12 months. This reflex is an indicator of neurological development, and its presence beyond the first year could suggest neurological concerns, but it is not the reflex in question here.
C) Rooting reflex:
The rooting reflex occurs when the newborn turns their head and opens their mouth in response to cheek stimulation, typically to find the nipple for breastfeeding. This reflex is present at birth and usually disappears by 3-4 months, which is similar to the timing mentioned in the question.
D) Moro reflex:
The Moro reflex is a startle reflex in which the infant spreads their arms and then pulls them back in when they feel a sudden loss of support or a loud noise. This reflex is present at birth and typically disappears by 3-4 months of age. It is considered a classic primitive reflex that fades as the infant's nervous system matures.
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