A nurse is caring for a client who is 42 weeks of gestation. Based on the assessment findings, which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take? (Select all that apply.)
Increase the oxytocin infusion to 13 mu/min.
Initiate a bolus of primary IV fluids.
Place the client in a sidelying position.
Apply oxygen at 10 L/min via a venturi mask.
Perform a sterile vaginal examination (SVE).
Correct Answer : B,C,E
The correct answer is B, C, and D.
Choice A: Increase the oxytocin infusion to 13 mu/min
Increasing the oxytocin infusion is not indicated in this scenario. Oxytocin is used to induce or augment labor, but if the fetal heart rate tracing is abnormal (Category 3), increasing oxytocin could exacerbate fetal distress. The priority is to stabilize the fetal condition before considering increasing oxytocin.
Choice B: Initiate a bolus of primary IV fluids
Initiating a bolus of primary IV fluids is appropriate. This action helps improve placental perfusion and maternal hydration, which can be beneficial in response to abnormal fetal heart rate tracings. Adequate hydration can enhance uteroplacental blood flow and improve fetal oxygenation.
Choice C: Place the client in a sidelying position
Placing the client in a sidelying position is recommended. This position can improve uteroplacental perfusion and fetal oxygenation, especially if there are signs of fetal distress. It helps to alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, enhancing blood flow to the placenta.
Choice D: Apply oxygen at 10 L/min via a venturi mask
While oxygen may be indicated for fetal distress, the correct method is usually a non-rebreather mask at 10 L/min, not a venturi mask. A venturi mask delivers more precise oxygen concentrations but not high-flow oxygen, which is needed in this scenario.
Choice E: Perform a sterile vaginal examination (SVE)
A vaginal exam assesses labor progression, cervical dilation, station, and fetal position. This is important for determining whether labor is progressing appropriately or whether further interventions are needed.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Maintain the client in the lithotomy position: The lithotomy position is not typically
maintained during the active phase of labor. It is used during the pushing stage (second stage) of labor.
B. Encourage the client to empty her bladder every 2 hr: A full bladder can impede fetal descent and progress during labor, so encouraging the client to empty her bladder regularly is essential.
C. Remind the client to bear down with each contraction: Bearing down during the active phase of labor is not appropriate, as it may lead to premature pushing and cervical swelling.
D. Perform vaginal examinations frequently: Frequent vaginal examinations can increase the risk of infection and should be minimized during labor.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A:The priority action when the fetal monitor tracing shows late decelerations after the client's membranes rupture is to turn the client onto her side. This position change helps relieve pressure on the vena cava and improves blood flow to the fetus.
Choice B: Increasing the client's IV fluid infusion rate is not the first priority in this situation, as late decelerations are primarily related to uteroplacental insufficiency rather than maternal hydration status.
Choice C: Administering oxygen to the client is important, but turning the client onto her side should be the first action to improve fetal oxygenation.
Choice D: Palpating the client's uterus is not the first priority in the presence of late
decelerations. The focus should be on relieving the compression on the vena cava and improving fetal oxygenation by changing the client's position.
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