A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving terbutaline to treat preterm labor. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a potential adverse effect of this medication?

In the context of a client at 32 weeks of gestation with complete placenta previa, the following assessment findings require immediate follow-up:

A. Fetal heart rate:

Explanation: An elevated fetal heart rate (174/min) may be indicative of fetal distress. This finding requires immediate follow-up to assess the well-being of the fetus.

F. Vaginal bleeding:

Explanation: A moderate amount of bright red vaginal bleeding is a concerning sign, especially in the context of complete placenta previa. It indicates active bleeding, and immediate follow-up is necessary to assess the severity of the situation and the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

C & D. Hemoglobin (Hgb) and Hematocrit (Hct):

Explanation: Hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important indicators of blood loss. Given the vaginal bleeding, these values need immediate follow-up to assess the extent of maternal blood loss and the potential need for blood transfusion.

The following assessment findings do not require immediate follow-up in the given context:

B. Fundal height:

Explanation: Fundal height (33cm) is typically measured to assess fetal growth. While it's important to monitor, it may not be an immediate concern unless there are other signs of fetal distress.

E. Platelet count:

Explanation: While platelet count is important, it may not require immediate follow-up unless there is evidence of severe bleeding and a potential risk of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). In this scenario, attention to Hgb and Hct is more urgent.

G & H. White Blood Cell (WBC) count and Red Blood Cell (RBC) count:

Explanation: WBC count and RBC count may be monitored but do not require immediate follow-up unless there are signs of infection or other complications not evident in the given information.

A. Administer oxygen via a face mask: This is the correct answer. Administering oxygen helps improve oxygenation to the fetus and is a standard intervention for late decelerations.

B. Decrease the rate of IV fluids: Decreasing IV fluids is not typically the first intervention for late decelerations. The primary goal is to improve oxygenation to the fetus, and increasing or maintaining maternal blood volume is important.

C. Perform fetal scalp stimulation: Fetal scalp stimulation is not the first-line intervention for late decelerations. It is more commonly used for assessing fetal well-being and responsiveness during the labor process.

D. Elevate the client’s head: Elevation of the client's head is not the recommended position for addressing late decelerations. Placing the client in a side-lying position is more appropriate to relieve pressure on the vena cava.