A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a decrease in the fetal heart rate. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask.
Apply a fetal scalp electrode.
Change the client’s position.
Increase the rate of the IV infusion.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the client to perform Kegel exercises can help strengthen pelvic floor muscles, but it does not address the immediate problem of a displaced and boggy uterus.
Choice B rationale
Assisting the client to the bathroom to void is the correct action. A full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly, which can lead to uterine atony and increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice C rationale
Asking the client to rate her pain is important, but it does not address the immediate problem of a displaced and boggy uterus.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging the client to move to the left lateral position can improve venous return and cardiac output, but it does not address the immediate problem of a displaced and boggy uterus
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A fundus that is three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus 8 hours postpartum is a sign of urinary retention, which can displace the uterus and inhibit uterine contraction, leading to postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
Moderate lochia rubra, or bloody discharge, is normal within the first few days after childbirth.
Choice C rationale
A blood pressure of 130/84 mm Hg is within the normal range for a postpartum woman.
Choice D rationale
Moderate swelling of the labia can be a normal finding after a vaginal birth.
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