A nurse is caring for a newborn and hears an apical heart rate of 130/min. What should the nurse do next?

Choice A rationale
While reduced fetal oxygen supply can occur with hypertonic contractions and inadequate uterine relaxation, it’s not the primary adverse effect. The main concern is the impact on the progress of labor.
Choice B rationale
This is the correct answer. Inadequate uterine relaxation between hypertonic contractions can delay cervical dilation, slowing the progress of labor.
Choice C rationale
Prolonged labor is not typically associated with hypertonic contractions and inadequate uterine relaxation. In fact, these conditions can lead to a more rapid labor.
Choice D rationale
Increased maternal stress can occur with any labor complication, but it’s not the primary adverse effect of hypertonic contractions and inadequate uterine relaxation.

Choice A rationale
Monitoring vaginal bleeding is the priority nursing action for a client who is at 33 weeks of gestation and has a diagnosis of placenta previa. Placenta previa can cause painless, bright red vaginal bleeding during the third trimester. This bleeding can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus, making it crucial to monitor for this symptom.
Choice B rationale
Administering glucocorticoids is not the priority nursing action in this situation. While glucocorticoids can be used to accelerate fetal lung maturity in cases of preterm labor, they are not the primary treatment for placenta previa.
Choice C rationale
Inserting an IV catheter may be necessary for administering medications or fluids, but it is not the priority action. The nurse’s primary concern should be monitoring for signs of bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Applying an external fetal monitor can help assess the well-being of the fetus, but it is not the priority action. The nurse’s main focus should be on monitoring for vaginal bleeding.