A nurse is teaching a client who is at 18 weeks of gestation and is to undergo an amniocentesis. The nurse should explain that the purpose of this test is to identify which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A: While an upright position is generally beneficial during labor to improve uterine contractions and fetal positioning, it is not the priority in this situation of hypotension.
Choice B: Preparing for a cesarean birth is not indicated solely based on the blood pressure reading. Cesarean birth should be considered based on the overall assessment and clinical condition of the client and baby.
Choice C: The client's blood pressure reading of 82/52 mm Hg indicates hypotension. In this situation, the nurse should assist the client in turning onto her side to relieve pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the placenta and the baby. Lying supine can compress the vena cava, leading to decreased venous return and reduced cardiac output, which may negatively affect fetal oxygenation and maternal wellbeing.
Choice D: Preparing for an immediate vaginal delivery is not the priority at this moment. The nurse should first address the hypotension and improve maternal blood flow before proceeding with delivery.

Choice A: Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to maintain an empty bladder at all times.

Routinely inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not necessary for maintaining an empty bladder during labor. While it is important to ensure the client has a voiding schedule, the use of an indwelling catheter should be reserved for specific medical indications, such as when the client is unable to void or has received an epidural. Indwelling catheters can increase the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) and should be used judiciously.

Choice B: Keep four side rails up while the client is in bed, maintaining strict bedrest.

Keeping all four side rails up and maintaining strict bedrest is not appropriate during active labor. This practice can limit the client’s movement, which is essential for comfort and progress during labor. Movement and changing positions can help labor progress and reduce pain. Strict bedrest is generally reserved for specific medical conditions, such as preterm labor or other complications.

Choice C: Monitor the fetal heart rate (FHR) hourly during active labor.

Monitoring the fetal heart rate (FHR) is crucial during labor to assess the well-being of the fetus. However, hourly monitoring may not be sufficient. Guidelines recommend more frequent monitoring, typically every 15-30 minutes during the active phase of labor and every 5-15 minutes during the second stage. Continuous electronic fetal monitoring may be used for high-risk pregnancies or if there are signs of fetal distress.

Choice D: Check the cervix to determine how close the time of delivery may be prior to analgesic administration.

Checking the cervix to determine how close the time of delivery may be prior to analgesic administration is important. This practice helps ensure that analgesics are administered at an appropriate time, avoiding potential complications such as delayed delivery or inadequate pain relief. Cervical checks provide valuable information about the progress of labor and help guide clinical decisions regarding pain management and delivery planning.