A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and notes late decelerations in the FHR on the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Change the client's position.

Palpate the uterus to assess for tachysystole.

Increase the client's IV infusion rate.

Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:

When late decelerations are noted in the fetal heart rate (FHR) tracing, it indicates that the fetal oxygen supply may be compromised. The nurse should first change the client's position, such as moving her to the left lateral position or a hands-and-knees position, to improve uteroplacental blood flow and relieve pressure on the vena cava.

Choice B rationale:

Palpating the uterus to assess for tachysystole is not the priority action when late decelerations are observed. Tachysystole refers to excessively frequent uterine contractions and may contribute to fetal distress, but the immediate concern is addressing the decelerations.

Choice C rationale:

Increasing the client's IV infusion rate may not address the underlying cause of late decelerations. While maintaining hydration is important, it's not the first action to take in this situation.

Choice D rationale:

Administering oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask may be beneficial for the client and fetus, but it is not the first action to take. The nurse should address the position change first to improve oxygenation through better blood flow before considering supplemental oxygen.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Current guidelines recommend that women aged 21 to 29 have a Pap test every three years, and those aged 30 to 65 can either have a Pap test every three years or a Pap plus HPV (human papillomavirus) test every five years. After age 65, and with a history of normal results, Pap tests may be discontinued.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should not include choice B, "Pap tests are discontinued following removal of the ovaries,” in the teaching. The presence or absence of ovaries does not affect the need for Pap testing. The Pap test is primarily used to screen for cervical cancer, and its necessity is determined based on age and previous screening results, not on ovarian status.

Choice C rationale:

Patients are advised to avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or using vaginal medications for 24 hours before the test to ensure accurate results.

Choice D rationale:

The nurse should not include choice D, "Viral infections can be detected by a Pap test,” in the teaching. The Pap test is not designed to detect viral infections. Instead, it is used to detect abnormal cervical cells, which may indicate pre-cancerous or cancerous changes.

A. Prepare the equipment necessary to initiate an amnioinfusion. B. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a nonrebreather face mask. C. Discontinue the infusion of oxytocin. D. Place the client in a left lateral position.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Preparing for an amnioinfusion is not the first-line action. It may be considered if decelerations do not resolve with initial measures such as maternal repositioning.

Choice B reason:

Administering oxygen is a subsequent measure if initial interventions like repositioning do not improve the FHR. Oxygen is typically given at 8-10 L/min via a nonrebreather mask to increase fetal oxygenation.

Choice C reason:

Discontinuing oxytocin is important if the cause of decelerations is uterine hyperstimulation. However, repositioning the client should precede this action to quickly address potential umbilical cord compression.

Choice D reason:

This is the first action to take because it can quickly alleviate potential compression of the umbilical cord, which is often the cause of variable decelerations. It may be considered if decelerations do not resolve with initial measures such as maternal repositioning.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and notes late decelerations in the FHR on the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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