What is an important nursing consideration when administering oxytocin (Pitocin) in labor?
Administer the highest effective dose to establish effective labor.
Use of intermittent monitoring with oxytocin infusion.
Administer the dose as ordered.
Discontinue oxytocin for reassuring fetal heart patterns.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Administering the highest effective dose is unsafe. Oxytocin must be titrated carefully because excessive dosing can cause uterine tachysystole, fetal distress, or uterine rupture.
Choice B reason: Intermittent monitoring is not appropriate with oxytocin infusion. Continuous monitoring is required because oxytocin increases risk of fetal compromise and uterine hyperstimulation.
Choice C reason: Administering the dose as ordered is the correct consideration. Nurses must follow prescribed protocols, titrate carefully, and monitor maternal-fetal response. This ensures safe induction while minimizing risks.
Choice D reason: Discontinuing oxytocin for reassuring fetal heart patterns is incorrect. Oxytocin should be discontinued if fetal heart patterns become non-reassuring or if uterine tachysystole occurs, not when patterns are reassuring.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A reassuring fetal heart tracing indicates normal fetal oxygenation and wellbeing. This is not a concern and requires no immediate intervention.
Choice B reason: A continuous contraction lasting 2 minutes is abnormal and dangerous. Normal contractions should last 45–90 seconds. Prolonged contractions reduce uteroplacental blood flow, increasing the risk of fetal hypoxia and uterine rupture. This finding requires immediate reporting and intervention.
Choice C reason: Contractions occurring every 4 minutes are within normal labor progression. This is not concerning unless accompanied by abnormal fetal heart patterns or maternal distress.
Choice D reason: A pink mucus plug is a normal sign of cervical change and impending labor. It is expected and not a cause for concern.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Changing sanitary pads only when completely saturated is unsafe. Saturated pads increase the risk of infection because bacteria thrive in moist environments. Additionally, waiting until pads are fully soaked can delay recognition of excessive bleeding or postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B reason: Changing sanitary pads only twice per day is inadequate. Postpartum women should change pads frequently, at least every few hours, to maintain hygiene and reduce infection risk. This practice also allows monitoring of lochia flow and early detection of abnormal bleeding.
Choice C reason: Cleansing from the periurethral area to the perineal area is the correct technique. This front-to-back cleansing prevents the transfer of bacteria from the rectal area to the urethra and vagina, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and endometritis. Proper perineal hygiene is essential in preventing postpartum complications.
Choice D reason: Vigorous wiping is contraindicated. It can cause trauma to the perineum, especially if there are lacerations, episiotomy sites, or hemorrhoids. Gentle cleansing is recommended to avoid irritation and promote healing.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.