A client at 30 weeks of gestation is experiencing pre-term labor.

Which intervention should the nurse anticipate to suppress uterine contractions?

Administering intravenous fluids

Administering tocolytics

Administering corticosteroids

Administering antibiotics

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Tocolytics are a category of drugs used to delay the labor process. These may be used in situations when a pregnant person begins showing signs of preterm labor —which is any time before 37 weeks of completed pregnancy. Tocolytics may help delay labor by two to seven days.

Some possible explanations for the other choices are:

• Choice A. Administering intravenous fluids.

This is not a correct answer because intravenous fluids are not effective in suppressing uterine contractions. They may be used to correct dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, which can sometimes trigger preterm labor, but they are not a primary intervention for preterm labor.

• Choice C. Administering corticosteroids.

This is not a correct answer because corticosteroids are not tocolytics. They do not stop or slow down uterine contractions, but they help accelerate fetal lung maturity and reduce the risk of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and other complications of prematurity.

Corticosteroids are often given along with tocolytics, but they have a different function and mechanism of action.

• Choice D. Administering antibiotics.

This is not a correct answer because antibiotics are not tocolytics. They may be used to treat infections that can cause or complicate preterm labor, such as chorioamnionitis or group B streptococcus, but they do not directly affect uterine contractions.

Antibiotics may be given along with tocolytics, but they have a different function.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Prepare for an emergency cesarean section.This is because the client has pre-term labor that has not responded to tocolytic therapy, which are drugs that are used to delay delivery for a short time.The client’s cervix is dilated to 4 cm and she is experiencing regular contractions every 3 minutes, which are signs of active labor.The baby is at 33 weeks of gestation, which is premature and may have complications such as respiratory distress syndrome or bleeding in the brain.

Therefore, the client needs an emergency cesarean section to deliver the baby as soon as possible and prevent further risks.

Choice A is wrong because administering magnesium sulfate intravenously is a type of tocolytic therapy that the client has already failed.Magnesium sulfate may also have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, flushing, headache, and muscle weakness.

Choice C is wrong because placing the client in Trendelenburg position, which is lying on the back with the feet elevated above the head, is not recommended for preterm labor.This position may increase the risk of aspiration, decrease cardiac output, and impair gas exchange.

Choice D is wrong because administering antibiotics prophylactically is not indicated for preterm labor unless there is evidence of infection in the uterus or membranes.

Antibiotics may also cause allergic reactions or bacterial resistance

A. Monitor vital signs and neurological status frequently B. Administer antibiotics as prescribed C. Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees D. Provide supplemental oxygen as needed

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Monitor vital signs and neurological status frequently.

This is because intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a common and serious complication of prematurity that can lead to hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.Monitoring vital signs and neurological status can help detect changes in intracranial pressure, bleeding, and infection.

Choice B is wrong because antibiotics are not indicated for IVH unless there is evidence of infection.

Choice C is wrong because elevating the head of the bed to 30 degrees can increase the risk of IVH by reducing cerebral perfusion pressure and causing venous congestion.

Choice D is wrong because supplemental oxygen is not recommended for IVH unless there is hypoxia or respiratory distress.Excessive oxygen can cause oxidative stress and vasoconstriction, which can worsen IVH.

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A client at 30 weeks of gestation is experiencing pre-term labor. Which intervention should the nurse anticipate to suppress uterine contractions?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is planning care for a pre-term newborn who has a diagnosis of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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A client at 30 weeks of gestation is experiencing pre-term labor.

Which intervention should the nurse anticipate to suppress uterine contractions?