A nurse is caring for a client who is in labor and notes that the umbilical cord is prolapsed. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) Administer 1 L dextrose 5% in water IV bolus prior to the procedure: Administering a large volume IV bolus is generally unnecessary before a paracentesis. It can lead to abdominal distension and discomfort, potentially complicating the procedure. Fluid management should be carefully considered based on the client’s condition rather than a standard bolus.

B) Initiate NPO status 4 hr prior to the procedure: Paracentesis typically does not require NPO status unless sedation is planned, which is uncommon. Keeping the client NPO can cause unnecessary discomfort and does not align with standard pre-procedural care for a paracentesis, which usually allows for regular oral intake.

C) Position the client over an overbed table prior to the procedure: While positioning is crucial for comfort and access, clients are generally positioned sitting at the edge of the bed or in a semi-Fowler's position. An overbed table may not provide adequate support and could lead to discomfort or complications during the procedure.

D) Instruct the client to empty her bladder prior to the procedure: This action is important as it helps reduce the risk of bladder injury during the paracentesis and minimizes discomfort. An empty bladder allows for better access to the abdominal cavity, indicating that the nurse understands the necessary preparations for the procedure.

A. "Ensure the child's hair is clean and without conditioner before the procedure.": This is important because any oils or products in the hair can interfere with the electrodes' ability to detect brain activity accurately. Clean, product-free hair helps ensure the best results from the EEG.

B. "Give the child acetaminophen for pain following the procedure.": EEGs are generally non-invasive and do not typically cause pain, so administering pain relief afterward is usually unnecessary unless specified by a healthcare provider.

C. "Make the child NPO before the procedure.": Typically, there is no need for the child to be NPO (nothing by mouth) for an EEG unless it is specified for a particular type of EEG that might involve sedation. Most routine EEGs do not require this.

D. "Keep the child out of the sun for 4 hr following the procedure.": There are no standard recommendations related to sun exposure after an EEG. Therefore, this instruction is not applicable.