A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and experiences abruptio placenta.

Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:
Administering ephedrine IV is not the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. Ephedrine is typically used to treat hypotension during spinal anesthesia, not amniotic fluid embolism.
Choice B rationale:
Assisting the client to empty their bladder is not the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. While bladder care is important, it is not the priority in this situation.
Choice C rationale:
Assessing for the presence of clonus is not the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. Clonus is typically assessed in clients with preeclampsia or eclampsia, not amniotic fluid embolism.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation is the appropriate action for a client experiencing an amniotic fluid embolism during labor. Amniotic fluid embolism can lead to cardiovascular collapse, therefore, immediate resuscitation measures should be prepared15.

• Color: Consistent with genetic background

  • Interpretation: B) Sign of potential improvement
  • Rationale: The newborn’s color being consistent with their genetic background indicates a normal adjustment and is not a sign of deterioration. This suggests improvement from the initial condition of acrocyanosis.

• Axillary Temperature: 36.3°C (97.4°F)

  • Interpretation: B) Sign of potential improvement
  • Rationale: The axillary temperature is within the normal range (36.1°C to 37.2°C), which is a positive sign and suggests that the newborn is maintaining normal body temperature.

• Reflex Irritability: Cry

  • Interpretation: B) Sign of potential improvement
  • Rationale: A good cry indicates normal reflex irritability and is a positive sign of neurological and overall well-being.

• Muscle Tone: Flaccid

  • Interpretation: C) Sign of potential worsening condition
  • Rationale: Flaccid muscle tone is concerning as it might indicate a worsening condition or potential neurological issues. It is less typical for muscle tone to be flaccid after the initial adjustment period.

• Respiration Effort: Good cry

  • Interpretation: B) Sign of potential improvement
  • Rationale: A good cry indicates effective respiration and is a positive sign of the newborn’s respiratory status.

• Heart Rate: 140/min

  • Interpretation: B) Sign of potential improvement
  • Rationale: The heart rate is within the normal range for newborns (120-160/min), indicating that the cardiovascular system is functioning properly.