A nurse is caring for a newborn delivered by vaginal birth with vacuum assist. The newborn's mother asks about the swollen area on her son's head. After palpation to identify that the swelling crosses the suture line, which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?

Choice A reason:
Administering oxygen using a non-rebreather mask is a subsequent step if initial measures do not improve fetal heart rate decelerations. It can help increase the amount of oxygen available to the fetus. Oxygen administration is a supportive measure that can be used if there are signs of fetal distress. In the scenario described, where the fetal heart rate slows after the start of a contraction with the lowest rate occurring after the peak, it suggests late decelerations, which are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency. Administering oxygen can help increase the fetal oxygen reserve and is a common intervention during labor when there are concerns about fetal well-being.

Choice B reason:
Increasing the rate of maintenance IV infusion is typically considered when there is a concern for maternal hypotension or dehydration, which may not be the immediate cause of the observed fetal heart rate pattern. Increasing the rate of an IV infusion can help improve maternal hydration and blood pressure, which in turn can enhance placental perfusion. However, this intervention is more indirect and may not provide the immediate response needed to address fetal heart rate decelerations. It is typically considered after more direct interventions, such as repositioning the mother, have been attempted.

Choice C reason:
Elevating the client's legs can help improve venous return to the heart, potentially increasing maternal cardiac output and blood flow to the placenta. While this can be beneficial, it is not the primary intervention for late decelerations. Repositioning the mother to improve uteroplacental circulation is generally the first step.
Choice D reason:
Placing the client in the lateral position is often the first action taken when late decelerations are observed. This position helps improve uteroplacental blood flow and can quickly address potential issues related to fetal oxygenation. This position helps to relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava and aorta, which can be compressed by the gravid uterus, especially in the supine position. Relieving this pressure helps to improve uteroplacental circulation and can quickly address the cause of late decelerations, which is often related to compromised blood flow to the placenta.

Choice A reason:
Introducing fluoride supplements to a newborn is not typically recommended until the age of 6 months, unless advised by a healthcare provider due to specific water supply conditions. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests that fluoride supplementation should begin at 6 months if the water supply is deficient in fluoride.

Choice B reason:
Cow's milk is not recommended for infants under the age of 1 year. Introducing cow's milk before this age can lead to iron deficiency and potentially cause harm to the infant's developing kidneys. It also lacks the proper nutrients that infants require, which are found in breast milk or formula.

Choice C reason:
The AAP recommends that fruit juice should not be introduced to infants before 6 months of age. Before this age, babies should only be fed breast milk or formula. Introducing fruit juice too early can contribute to excessive weight gain and tooth decay.

Choice D reason:
The introduction of solid foods is recommended to start at around 6 months of age. Starting solid foods at 3 months is too early and can increase the risk of choking and may lead to the development of food allergies.