A nurse is caring for a patient who is in labor at 40 weeks of gestation and reports that she has saturated two perineal pads in the past 30 minutes.
The nurse suspects placenta previa.
What would be an appropriate nursing action in this situation?
Administer a magnesium sulfate infusion.
Initiate pushing.
Prepare for a cesarean birth.
Examination to determine cervical status.
The Correct Answer is C
If a patient in labor at 40 weeks of gestation reports saturating two perineal pads in the past 30 minutes, and placenta previa is suspected, an appropriate nursing action would be to prepare for a cesarean birth. Placenta previa, where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening, can cause significant bleeding and is typically managed with a cesarean delivery to prevent further bleeding and ensure the safety of the mother and baby.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Late decelerations in the Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) are a type of FHR pattern observed during labor, indicating a potential compromise of fetal well-being. They often begin just after a contraction, with their lowest point occurring after the peak of the contraction. These decelerations are associated with maternal and fetal conditions. Changing the client’s position can help alleviate the pressure on the fetus and improve blood flow, potentially reducing the occurrence of late decelerations. Therefore, the first action the nurse should take when noting late decelerations in the FHR is to change the client’s position.
Choice B rationale
Applying a fetal scalp electrode is a method used to monitor the FHR more accurately. However, it is not the first action to take when late decelerations are noted. The priority is to address the potential cause of the decelerations, such as changing the client’s position to improve blood flow.
Choice C rationale
Administering oxygen can help increase the oxygen supply to the fetus. However, it is not the first action to take when late decelerations are noted. The priority is to address the potential cause of the decelerations, such as changing the client’s position to improve blood flow.
Choice D rationale
Increasing the rate of the IV infusion can help improve uteroplacental perfusion. However, it is not the first action to take when late decelerations are noted. The priority is to address the potential cause of the decelerations, such as changing the client’s position to improve blood flow.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Cervical dilation is a key sign that a patient is in labor. As labor progresses, the cervix dilates to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. Other signs of labor can include regular contractions, rupture of membranes (amniotic fluid present in the vaginal vault), and changes in vaginal discharge.
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