A nurse is unfamiliar with a medication they are preparing to administer to a client. Prior to administering the medication, the nurse should refer to which of the following resources?

A. "Cola soft drink." A standard 240 mL (8 oz) serving of cola contains approximately 20 to 40 mg of caffeine. While this is lower than the caffeine content in coffee or tea, it is still higher than that of hot cocoa.
B. "Hot cocoa." Hot cocoa contains the least amount of caffeine, typically around 5 mg per 240 mL (8 oz). Cocoa naturally contains small amounts of caffeine, but it is significantly lower than in coffee, tea, or soda.
C. "Brewed green tea." A 240 mL (8 oz) serving of brewed green tea contains approximately 30 to 50 mg of caffeine. While green tea has less caffeine than coffee, it still has more than hot cocoa.
D. "Instant coffee." Instant coffee has one of the highest caffeine contents per 240 mL (8 oz), ranging from 60 to 80 mg. This makes it a less suitable choice for someone trying to reduce caffeine intake.

Rationale for Correct Options:

1. Late decelerations on fetal heart rate (FHR) – First Priority

Late decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, meaning the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen. This is the most urgent concern because prolonged fetal distress can lead to hypoxia and acidosis, increasing the risk of complications such as stillbirth or emergency cesarean birth. Nursing Actions: Reposition the client to left lateral position to improve placental perfusion. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask. Increase IV fluids to improve maternal circulation. Stop oxytocin if it's being used, as it may be causing excessive contractions. Notify the provider immediately for further interventions, such as potential intrauterine resuscitation or emergent delivery.

1. Positive Group B streptococcus (GBS) status – Second Priority

The client tested positive for GBS, a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to the newborn during birth, leading to neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. While this is a significant concern, it is secondary to the immediate fetal distress from late decelerations. Nursing Actions: Administer IV antibiotics (penicillin G or an alternative) as ordered to prevent neonatal infection. Monitor for signs of infection in the newborn after delivery.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

• Severe back pain rated 10/10 – Pain management is important, but fetal distress takes precedence over maternal discomfort.
• Restlessness and irritability – These could indicate maternal distress or labor progression, but they are not as urgent as fetal oxygenation.
• Increasing contraction intensity and frequency – This is expected as labor progresses but is not immediately life-threatening.
• Fatigue and emotional distress – While support is essential, it is not a priority over fetal well-being or preventing neonatal infection.