A nurse is assisting in the care of a child who is receiving IV cefuroxime when the child begins to have difficulty breathing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A reason:

The nurse should firmly massage the fundus. The rationale behind this action is that massaging the fundus helps to stimulate uterine contractions, which aids in controlling bleeding after childbirth. By promoting uterine contractions, the nurse can assist in preventing further hemorrhage.

Choice B reason:

The nurse should administer oxygen via a nonrebreather face mask. The rationale for this action is that postpartum hemorrhage can lead to decreased oxygen levels in the blood, which can be detrimental to both the mother and the baby. Providing oxygen via a nonrebreather face mask ensures adequate oxygenation and helps stabilize the client's condition.

Choice C reason:

The nurse should ensure the client has IV access. Establishing IV access is crucial in managing postpartum hemorrhage as it allows for the rapid administration of fluids, blood products, and medications. IV access ensures that the client receives prompt treatment to address the blood loss and stabilize her condition.

Choice D reason:

The nurse should not prepare the client for an amnioinfusion in the context of postpartum hemorrhage. An amnioinfusion is a procedure used during labor to infuse fluid into the amniotic sac. However, it is not indicated or relevant in the management of postpartum hemorrhage.

Choice E reason:

The nurse should give the client Rh (D) immune globulin. The rationale behind this action is that Rh (D) immune globulin, also known as RhoGAM, is administered to Rh-negative mothers after the birth of an Rh-positive baby. This prevents the mother's immune system from developing antibodies against Rh-positive blood cells, which could cause complications in future pregnancies.

Choice A reason:

The nurse should not reinforce to the client that they should not breastfeed after delivery. Group B streptococcus (GBS) is not transmitted through breast milk. It is crucial for infants born to GBS-positive mothers to receive appropriate prophylaxis, but breastfeeding is not contraindicated.

Choice B reason:

The nurse should maintain contact precautions for the client. Group B streptococcus is a highly contagious bacterium, and taking precautions can help prevent its transmission to other patients and healthcare workers.

Choice C reason:

The nurse does not need to obtain a pharyngeal culture from the client. Group B streptococcus colonization typically occurs in the genital and gastrointestinal tracts, not in the pharynx. Therefore, a pharyngeal culture would not be relevant in this situation.

Choice D reason:

This is the correct action the nurse should take. The client tested positive for group B streptococcus, which puts the newborn at risk of infection during labor and delivery. The standard protocol is to administer intravenous antibiotic prophylaxis to the mother during labor to reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.