A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and has spontaneous rupture of membranes. The nurse notes that the umbilical cord is protruding from the client's vagina. After calling for help, which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Use fingers to exert upward pressure on the presenting part
Administer a tocolytic medication
Wrap the cord in a sterile towel and moisten with warm sterile normal saline
Apply oxygen via facemask to the client
The Correct Answer is A
A. Use fingers to exert upward pressure on the presenting part
The priority in the case of a prolapsed umbilical cord is to relieve pressure on the cord to maintain blood flow to the fetus. The nurse should use sterile-gloved fingers to lift the presenting part of the fetus off the prolapsed cord. This action helps prevent compression of the umbilical cord, which could lead to fetal hypoxia and distress.
B. Administer a tocolytic medication: Tocolytic medications are used to inhibit uterine contractions. While tocolytics might be used in certain situations, the immediate concern with a prolapsed cord is to relieve pressure on it to maintain fetal blood flow.
C. Wrap the cord in a sterile towel and moisten with warm sterile normal saline: While covering the cord with a sterile towel and moistening it can help prevent drying and protect the cord, it is not the first priority. The primary concern is relieving pressure on the cord to prevent fetal compromise.
D. Apply oxygen via facemask to the client: Oxygen administration is important in managing fetal distress, but it is not the first action to take in the case of a prolapsed umbilical cord. The priority is to relieve pressure on the cord to maintain fetal oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Abdominal distention:
Explanation: Abdominal distention is more commonly associated with issues such as gas or gastrointestinal discomfort. It is not a typical sign of hypoglycemia.
B. Acrocyanosis:
Explanation: Acrocyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the extremities, is a common finding in newborns and is often unrelated to hypoglycemia. It is generally considered a normal response in the early hours or days of life.
C. Hypotonia:
Explanation: Hypotonia, or decreased muscle tone, can be associated with hypoglycemia. It may present as limpness or weakness in the newborn.
D. Jitteriness:
Explanation: Jitteriness, which is tremors or shakiness, can be a sign of hypoglycemia in a newborn. It is a result of the central nervous system responding to low blood glucose levels.
E. Temperature instability:
Explanation: Temperature instability, such as difficulty maintaining a stable body temperature, can be indicative of hypoglycemia. The newborn's ability to regulate temperature may be affected.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer 500 ml lactated Ringer's IV bolus:
This choice may be relevant in the context of postpartum hemorrhage, but the first step should be to assess the client's status, including urinary output. Administering fluids without a clear assessment may not address the underlying cause.
B. Replace the surgical dressing:
Vaginal bleeding after a cesarean birth is unlikely to be addressed by replacing the surgical dressing. This action may not address the root cause of the bleeding, which needs further assessment.
C. Apply an ice pack to the incision site:
Using an ice pack is not the appropriate intervention for postpartum bleeding. Ice is typically used for pain and swelling, not for controlling bleeding.
D. Evaluate urinary output:
This is the correct choice. Evaluating urinary output is crucial to assess the client's overall fluid status and kidney perfusion. In the context of postpartum bleeding, it helps determine if there is hypovolemia or other issues contributing to the bleeding. Adequate urinary output is a positive sign of organ perfusion.
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