A nurse is assisting in the care of a client on a labor and delivery unit.
Which of the following findings require further evaluation by the nurse?
Select all that apply.
Report of weight change
Client heart rate
Deep tendon reflexes
Fetal heart rate
Pain rating
Oxygen saturation level
Report of vaginal discharge
Correct Answer : B,D,E,G
A. Report of weight change. A slight weight loss near term is a common finding as the body prepares for labor. This is not an immediate concern.
B. Client heart rate. The heart rate increased from 90/min at 0830 to 110/min at 0845. A rising maternal heart rate could indicate dehydration, pain, or early signs of infection.
C. Deep tendon reflexes. Reflexes are documented as 2+, which is within the expected range and does not indicate hyperreflexia or hyporeflexia.
D. Fetal heart rate. The FHR at 1530 is 120/min with late decelerations, which is concerning. Late decelerations suggest uteroplacental insufficiency, requiring further assessment and possible interventions such as maternal repositioning, oxygen administration, or fluid bolus.
E. Pain rating. The client reports severe back pain rated as 10/10, which may indicate fetal malposition (such as occiput posterior positioning) or rapid labor progression, both requiring evaluation and possible intervention.
F. Oxygen saturation level. The oxygen saturation has remained stable between 96% and 97%, which is within the expected range and does not require immediate intervention.
G. Report of vaginal discharge. An increased amount of blood-tinged discharge at 1530 may indicate cervical dilation or potential complications such as placental abruption, especially in the presence of late decelerations.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"B"}
Explanation
Rationale for Correct Options:
- Late decelerations on fetal heart rate (FHR) – First Priority
Late decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, meaning the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen. This is the most urgent concern because prolonged fetal distress can lead to hypoxia and acidosis, increasing the risk of complications such as stillbirth or emergency cesarean birth. Nursing Actions: Reposition the client to left lateral position to improve placental perfusion. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask. Increase IV fluids to improve maternal circulation. Stop oxytocin if it's being used, as it may be causing excessive contractions. Notify the provider immediately for further interventions, such as potential intrauterine resuscitation or emergent delivery.
- Positive Group B streptococcus (GBS) status – Second Priority
The client tested positive for GBS, a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to the newborn during birth, leading to neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. While this is a significant concern, it is secondary to the immediate fetal distress from late decelerations. Nursing Actions: Administer IV antibiotics (penicillin G or an alternative) as ordered to prevent neonatal infection. Monitor for signs of infection in the newborn after delivery.
Rationale for Incorrect Options:
- Severe back pain rated 10/10 – Pain management is important, but fetal distress takes precedence over maternal discomfort.
- Restlessness and irritability – These could indicate maternal distress or labor progression, but they are not as urgent as fetal oxygenation.
- Increasing contraction intensity and frequency – This is expected as labor progresses but is not immediately life-threatening.
- Fatigue and emotional distress – While support is essential, it is not a priority over fetal well-being or preventing neonatal infection.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E","F"]
Explanation
A. Sputum characteristics. The presence of blood-tinged sputum raises concern for tuberculosis (TB) or another serious pulmonary condition, requiring further evaluation. Hemoptysis can indicate active infection or cavitary lung disease.
B. Respiratory complaint. The client reports a persistent, productive cough, night sweats, and fatigue, which are hallmark symptoms of TB. These symptoms, combined with recent travel to a TB-endemic region, increase the likelihood of infection and warrant further assessment.
C. Blood pressure. The client’s blood pressure is within the normal range and does not indicate an immediate concern requiring further evaluation.
D. Heart rate. A heart rate of 98/min is elevated but still within an acceptable range for mild illness or fever. While tachycardia can be associated with infection, it is not the most critical finding requiring urgent follow-up.
E. Temperature. A temperature of 38.1°C (100.5°F) indicates a low-grade fever, which is a common sign of TB or other infections. Given the client's symptoms and history, this finding warrants further investigation.
F. Travel history. The client recently traveled to South Africa, a region with a high prevalence of TB. Travel history is a crucial factor in determining TB risk and must be considered in the diagnostic process.
G. Oxygen saturation. The client’s oxygen saturation is 98% on room air, which is within normal limits and does not require further evaluation at this time.
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