A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and is receiving oxytocin via IV infusion. The nurse has applied an internal fetal heart monitor and recognizes an early deceleration of the fetal heart rate tracing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:
The incompetent cervix is not related to the client's current situation. An incompetent cervix refers to a weakened cervix that may result in premature dilation during pregnancy, leading to potential pregnancy loss or preterm birth. It is not relevant to the client's current stage of labour and cervical dilation.

Choice B rationale:
Postpartum haemorrhage is the correct condition to be concerned about in this situation. The client is 80% effaced and 8 cm dilated, which indicates she is in active labour. These signs of progress indicate that she is at risk for excessive bleeding after delivery, which is known as postpartum haemorrhage.

Choice C rationale:
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tube. This condition is not related to the client's current presentation, as she is already in active labour.

Choice D rationale:
Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe and persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, usually during the first trimester. This condition is not relevant to the client's current situation, which involves active labour and cervical dilation.

Choice A rationale:

Determining gestational age in the first trimester is a common and important use of ultrasound. It helps confirm the estimated due date and monitor the fetus's growth and development.

Choice B rationale:

Performing a biophysical profile in the first trimester is not a common use of ultrasound. Biophysical profiles are usually performed in the second or third trimester to assess fetal well-being.

Choice C rationale:

Observing placental maturity in the first trimester is not a standard use of ultrasound. Placental maturity is typically assessed later in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester.

Choice D rationale:

Detecting intrauterine growth restriction in the first trimester is not a primary use of ultrasound. Intrauterine growth restriction is more commonly assessed in the later stages of pregnancy when fetal growth is a concern.