A nurse is attending to a client in labor who is showing late decelerations on the electronic fetal monitor.
What should be the nurse’s initial course of action?
Insert an IV catheter.
Assist the client into the left-lateral position.
Apply a fetal scalp electrode.
Perform a vaginal exam.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While inserting an IV catheter can be a part of the overall management plan for a client showing late decelerations on the electronic fetal monitor, it is not the initial course of action. The primary concern with late decelerations is that they may indicate fetal hypoxia, and the first response should be aimed at improving fetal oxygenation.
Choice B rationale
Assisting the client into the left-lateral position is the correct initial response when late decelerations are observed on the electronic fetal monitor. This position helps to maximize blood flow to the uterus and placenta, thereby improving oxygen delivery to the fetus.
Choice C rationale
Applying a fetal scalp electrode may be useful for obtaining a more accurate fetal heart rate tracing, but it is not the initial response to late decelerations. The priority is to address the potential fetal hypoxia that late decelerations may indicate.
Choice D rationale
Performing a vaginal exam would not be the initial response to late decelerations. While a vaginal exam can provide valuable information about the progress of labor, it does not address the issue of potential fetal hypoxia indicated by late decelerations.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying a pressure dressing four hours after discharge is not typically recommended following a cardiac catheterization. The site of the catheter insertion is usually covered with a simple dressing and observed for any signs of bleeding or swelling.
Choice B rationale
While it’s important to monitor for signs of impaired circulation, such as a cool extremity, this is not the primary concern following a cardiac catheterization. The procedure involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel, not typically affecting the peripheral temperature of the extremities.
Choice C rationale
Administering acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain as needed is a common recommendation following procedures like a balloon angioplasty. Pain can result from the catheter insertion site and these medications can help manage it.
Choice D rationale
Maintaining a clear liquid diet for 24 hours after discharge is not typically necessary following a cardiac catheterization. Once the child is alert, they are usually provided with clear liquids and later something to eat.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Flushing and sweating can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate is a medication used to prevent seizures in women with severe preeclampsia. However, if the levels of magnesium become too high, it can lead to toxicity15.
Choice B rationale
A decreased level of consciousness can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. High levels of magnesium can affect the central nervous system, leading to drowsiness, lethargy, and decreased responsiveness15.
Choice C rationale
Urinary output less than 30 mL/hr can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can affect kidney function, leading to decreased urine output15.
Choice D rationale
Respirations fewer than 12/min can be an indication of magnesium sulfate toxicity. High levels of magnesium can depress the respiratory system, leading to slow or shallow breathing15.
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