A nurse is caring for a client who is about to undergo an amniotomy. What is the priority nursing action following this procedure?
Assess the fetal heart rate pattern.
Observe the color and consistency of fluid.
Assess the client’s temperature.
Evaluate the client for the presence of chills and increased uterine tenderness using palpation.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Assessing the fetal heart rate pattern is the priority nursing action following an amniotomy. This allows the nurse to monitor for signs of fetal distress, which can occur if the umbilical cord becomes compressed or prolapses as a result of the procedure.
Choice B rationale
Observing the color and consistency of the fluid can provide information about the well-being of the fetus, but it is not the priority action following an amniotomy.
Choice C rationale
Assessing the client’s temperature is important to monitor for signs of infection, but it is not the priority action following an amniotomy.
Choice D rationale
Evaluating the client for the presence of chills and increased uterine tenderness using palpation can help identify complications such as infection or uterine rupture, but it is not the priority action following an amniotomy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An Apgar score of 7 is considered fairly low and would typically be associated with a newborn who has more significant health concerns.
Choice B rationale
An Apgar score of 8 is considered to be within the normal range. This score would be consistent with a newborn who has a pink trunk and head, bluish hands and feet, flexed extremities, a weak and slow cry, a heart rate of 130/min, and cries in response to suctioning.
Choice C rationale
An Apgar score of 9 is considered to be within the normal range. However, given the newborn’s weak and slow cry, an Apgar score of 9 would be less likely.
Choice D rationale
An Apgar score of 10 is very unusual, as almost all newborns lose 1 point for blue hands and feet, which is normal for after birth.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask is a common intervention for fetal distress, but it is not the first action a nurse should take when a decrease in fetal heart rate is observed.
Choice B rationale
Applying a fetal scalp electrode can provide a more accurate fetal heart rate reading, but it is an invasive procedure and is not the first action a nurse should take when a decrease in fetal heart rate is observed.
Choice C rationale
Changing the client’s position is the correct action. This is often the first intervention for a decrease in fetal heart rate because it can relieve possible compression of the umbilical cord, which can improve fetal circulation and increase the fetal heart rate.
Choice D rationale
Increasing the rate of the IV infusion can increase maternal blood volume and improve placental blood flow, but it is not the first action a nurse should take when a decrease in fetal heart rate is observed.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.