A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has an epidural anesthesia block. The client's blood pressure is 80/40 mm Hg, and the fetal heart rate is 140/min. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?

Elevate the client's legs.

Place the client in a lateral position.

Monitor vital signs every 5 minutes.

Notify the provider.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A: Elevating the client's legs is a measure to increase blood flow to the brain in cases of orthostatic hypotension but may not be sufficient to improve fetal oxygenation in this situation. The lateral position is preferred as it improves uterine perfusion.

Choice B: The client's blood pressure of 80/40 mm Hg indicates hypotension, which can be a common side effect of epidural anesthesia. The priority nursing action is to place the client in a lateral (sidelying) position to improve blood flow to vital organs, including the uterus and placenta, and prevent further compromise of fetal oxygenation.

Choice C: Monitoring vital signs every 5 minutes is an important nursing action, but the priority in this situation is to address the hypotension and improve maternal and fetal wellbeing first.

Choice D: Notifying the provider is an important step, but it should not be the first action. Immediate intervention to address the hypotension is required to improve fetal oxygenation.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A: Engaging in moderate physical activity during pregnancy, such as jogging, is generally safe and beneficial for pregnant women who have uncomplicated pregnancies. Staying hydrated, avoiding excessive exertion, and preventing overheating are important considerations during exercise.

B: The use of saunas and hot tubs during pregnancy is generally not recommended at any trimester, as they can cause hyperthermia and pose risks to the developing fetus.

C: Limiting exercise to only stretching on a mat is not appropriate during pregnancy. Regular physical activity is generally encouraged, provided there are no specific contraindications or complications.

D: Completely avoiding exercise during pregnancy is not recommended, as moderate and appropriate physical activity can have various benefits for both the mother and the baby.

A. Position the client on her side. B. Elevate the client's legs. C. Increase the infusion rate of the IV fluid. D. Administer oxygen via face mask.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Position the client on her side: Late decelerations are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, which may be improved by changing the maternal position to improve blood flow to the placenta.
B. Elevate the client's legs: Elevating the client's legs would not directly address the cause of late decelerations.
C. Increase the infusion rate of the IV fluid: While ensuring adequate hydration is important, it is not the priority action when late decelerations are noted.
D. Administer oxygen via a face mask: Oxygen administration may be necessary, but it is not the priority action. Positioning the client on her side to improve blood flow is the priority.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has an epidural anesthesia block. The client's blood pressure is 80/40 mm Hg, and the fetal heart rate is 140/min. Which of the following is the priority nursing action?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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