The nurse notes on the fetal monitor that a laboring client has a variable deceleration. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Administer oxygen via facemask.
Turn off the oxytocin infusion
Assess cervical dilatation
Change the client's position
The Correct Answer is D
A. Administer oxygen via facemask: Oxygen administration is generally a step in managing fetal distress. However, when dealing with variable decelerations, the initial action involves repositioning the mother to alleviate potential cord compression, as variable decelerations are often due to compression of the umbilical cord.
B. Turn off the oxytocin infusion: If variable decelerations persist despite repositioning, it might be necessary to discontinue the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion temporarily. Oxytocin can cause or exacerbate uterine hyperstimulation, which can contribute to fetal distress.
C. Assess cervical dilatation: Assessing cervical dilatation might be a part of the overall assessment but might not directly address the immediate issue of variable decelerations. However, it's essential to monitor the progress of labor as part of the broader assessment.
D. Change the client's position: This is the recommended first action for variable decelerations. Repositioning the mother, such as moving her to a lateral or knee-chest position, can relieve potential cord compression and improve fetal oxygenation.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Calcium:
Calcium is essential for the development of fetal bones and teeth, but it is not specifically linked to preventing neural tube defects like anencephaly.
Iron:
Iron is crucial for preventing anemia in pregnancy, supporting increased blood volume. However, it is not directly associated with preventing neural tube defects.
Folic acid:
Folic acid is vital for preventing neural tube defects, including anencephaly. It's recommended for women of childbearing age and especially during the early stages of pregnancy.
Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is important for bone health, but its primary function is not directly related to preventing neural tube defects like anencephaly.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Notify the healthcare provider of the complaint: While it's important for the healthcare provider to be aware of any changes or symptoms the client is experiencing, the described discharge is commonly associated with normal physiological changes in pregnancy.
B. Recommend an over-the-counter yeast medication: The characteristics of the discharge described (white, thin, and watery) are not typical of a yeast infection. Using over-the-counter medications without proper assessment can lead to unnecessary treatment.
C. Inform her that this is a normal physiological change: This is the most appropriate action. Increased vaginal discharge, often described as leukorrhea, is a common and normal change during pregnancy. It's generally thin, white, and watery.
D. Prepare the client for a sterile speculum exam: A sterile speculum exam may be indicated if there are other concerning symptoms or if the discharge changes in color, consistency, or if there is associated itching or foul odor. However, based on the information provided, it's not the first-line action.
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