Which of the following practices reflect safe administration of oxytocin (Pitocin)?
Attach IV line to distal port
Customize concentration
Two RN verification
Titrate to gravity
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Attaching the IV line to the distal port is not a safe practice for oxytocin administration. This is because oxytocin is a high-alert medication that can have serious adverse effects if administered incorrectly. Attaching the IV line to the distal port increases the risk of the medication being infused too quickly, which can lead to uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, or even uterine rupture. The safest practice is to attach the IV line to the proximal port, which is closer to the patient's body and allows for slower infusion rates.
Choice B rationale:
Customizing the concentration of oxytocin is not a recommended practice. Oxytocin is available in a premixed solution of 10 units/mL, and this concentration should not be altered. Altering the concentration can lead to dosing errors and increase the risk of adverse effects.
Choice D rationale:
Titrating oxytocin to gravity is not a safe practice. Oxytocin should be administered using an infusion pump that can accurately control the infusion rate. Infusion pumps are necessary to ensure that the medication is administered at the correct dose and rate. Gravity-based infusions are less accurate and can lead to over- or under-infusion of the medication.
Choice C rationale:
Two RN verification is a safe practice for oxytocin administration. This practice involves having two registered nurses independently verify the medication, dose, and infusion rate before administration. This helps to prevent errors and ensure that the medication is administered safely.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Fetal position during the first trimester is not definitively determined through ultrasound. While the gestational sac and fetal pole can be visualized, the fetus is still quite small and has ample space to move within the amniotic sac. This makes it challenging to accurately ascertain its position.
Reliable assessment of fetal position typically occurs later in pregnancy, usually between 34 and 36 weeks gestation. At this point, the fetus is larger and less mobile, allowing for a clearer assessment of its position through ultrasound.
The early determination of fetal position in the first trimester is not a primary goal of ultrasound. It is more focused on establishing pregnancy viability, gestational age, and detecting any potential abnormalities.
Choice B rationale:
Ultrasound in the first trimester can reliably detect multiple gestations. It can visualize the presence of multiple gestational sacs or fetal poles, clearly indicating whether a woman is carrying twins, triplets, or more.
Early identification of multiple gestations is crucial for optimal pregnancy management. It allows healthcare providers to tailor prenatal care, monitor for potential complications associated with multiple pregnancies, and plan for appropriate delivery. Choice C rationale:
Ultrasound in the first trimester can assist in detecting certain maternal abnormalities that could impact pregnancy. These may include:
Uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids or structural defects
Ovarian cysts
Ectopic pregnancies (where the embryo implants outside the uterus)
Gestational trophoblastic disease (abnormal growth of tissue inside the uterus)
Early identification of these maternal abnormalities allows for timely intervention and management, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both mother and fetus.
Choice D rationale:
Confirming pregnancy is a primary reason for ultrasound in the first trimester. It can visualize the gestational sac, which contains the developing embryo and confirms the presence of a pregnancy.
Ultrasound can also detect the fetal heartbeat, which typically becomes visible between 6 and 8 weeks gestation. This provides further confirmation of a viable pregnancy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
It is true that a laboring client may not be able to eat, but this is not the primary reason for starting an IV. The client can receive fluids and electrolytes through the IV to maintain hydration and energy levels.
However, this response does not directly address the client's question about why the IV is necessary for the epidural.
It's important to provide a clear and accurate explanation to help the client understand the purpose of the intervention.
Choice B rationale:
This response is dismissive of the client's concerns and does not provide any information about why the IV is necessary.
It's important to acknowledge the client's concerns and provide them with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care.
Choice C rationale:
This is the correct response. The IV is necessary to administer medication for relaxation before the epidural is placed.
The epidural is a regional anesthetic that blocks pain signals from the lower body.
The medication for relaxation helps to reduce anxiety and discomfort, which can make it easier to place the epidural.
It also helps to prevent the client from moving during the procedure, which could lead to complications.
Choice D rationale:
This response is not accurate. An IV bolus is not typically given to minimize the side effects of the epidural.
Side effects of the epidural, such as hypotension and nausea, are usually managed with other medications.
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