A nurse is caring for a laboring client and notes that the fetal heart rate begins to decelerate after the contraction has started. The lowest point of deceleration occurs after the peak of the contraction. What is the priority nursing action?
Change the client's position.
Insert a scalp electrode.
Prepare for amnioinfusion.
Document benign decelerations.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The priority nursing action when the fetal heart rate shows a deceleration after the contraction has started, with the lowest point occurring after the peak of the contraction, is to change the client's position. This deceleration pattern is called "late decelerations,” and it is typically associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, which can be caused by maternal hypotension or impaired blood flow to the placenta. Changing the client's position, such as moving the client to their side or repositioning them, can alleviate pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the placenta, thus potentially resolving or minimizing the late decelerations.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting a scalp electrode (Choice B) is not the priority action in this situation. While a scalp electrode may be used to monitor the fetal heart rate more accurately and continuously, it is not the initial intervention for addressing late decelerations.
Choice C rationale:
Preparing for amnioinfusion (Choice C) may be considered if there are variable decelerations (caused by cord compression) present, but it is not the priority intervention for late decelerations.
Choice D rationale:
Documenting benign decelerations (Choice D) is not appropriate in this scenario since late decelerations are not considered benign and require immediate action.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client's statement, "I will check the identification badge of anyone who removes my baby from our room,” indicates an understanding of newborn safety. This statement shows the client's awareness of the importance of verifying the identity of anyone handling their baby before allowing them to be taken out of the room. Checking identification badges helps ensure that only authorized personnel, such as nurses or hospital staff, are allowed to handle the newborn, reducing the risk of unauthorized individuals taking the baby.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect and does not demonstrate an understanding of newborn safety. Including a photo of the baby along with public birth announcements to social media can compromise the baby's security and privacy. It may expose sensitive information about the baby's location and identity, making the baby vulnerable to potential risks.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is incorrect as it poses a safety risk to the newborn. Allowing the baby to sleep on the bed when the client is in the shower increases the risk of falls or suffocation. The baby should always be placed in a safe sleep environment, such as a crib or bassinet, to minimize the risk of accidents.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is incorrect and does not reflect an understanding of newborn safety. Nurses should not carry the baby in their arms to the nursery. Instead, they should use a crib or an infant carrier to transport the baby safely.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assessing for bladder distention is important for postpartum clients, especially those who have undergone perineal trauma during childbirth. However, it is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. The sitz bath is usually done to promote healing and comfort, and monitoring pulse rate takes precedence to identify any adverse reactions.
Choice B rationale:
Pulse rate should be the priority assessment during a sitz bath for a postpartum client. Sitz baths can cause vasodilation, leading to a potential drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or dizziness. Monitoring the pulse rate helps identify any cardiovascular changes or adverse reactions.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory rate is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. It is essential to monitor, but it is less likely to be affected directly by the sitz bath compared to the pulse rate and cardiovascular changes.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring the color of lochia is essential for assessing postpartum bleeding and uterine healing. However, during a sitz bath, the priority assessment should be focused on cardiovascular changes and any adverse reactions the client might experience.
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