A nurse on a labor unit is admitting a client who is lying supine in her bed and reports painful contractions. The nurse determines that the contractions have a duration of 1 min and a frequency of 3 min. The nurse obtains the following vital signs: fetal heart rate 130/min,
maternal heart rate 128/min, and maternal blood pressure 82/54 mm Hg. Which of the following is the first priority action for the nurse to take?
Reposition the client with one hip elevated or on her left side.
Notify the provider of the findings.
Ask the client if she needs pain medication.
Have the client empty her bladder.
The Correct Answer is A
A) Reposition the client with one hip elevated or on her left side: This is the correct first priority action. The client's vital signs indicate hypotension (low blood pressure), which may be caused by supine hypotensive syndrome. This condition occurs when the pregnant uterus compresses the vena cava, reducing blood return to the heart and causing a drop in blood pressure. Repositioning the client on her left side or elevating one hip can relieve the pressure on the vena cava and
improve blood flow to both the mother and the baby.
B) Notify the provider of the findings: While it is essential to inform the provider about the client's status, the first priority is to address the potential cause of hypotension and maternal discomfort.
C) Ask the client if she needs pain medication: Pain management is essential, but the client's vital signs and potential hypotensive condition take precedence as the first priority.
D) Have the client empty her bladder: Emptying the bladder can help reduce pressure on the vena cava and may improve blood flow, but it is not the first priority action in this situation. Repositioning the client is the initial priority to relieve supine hypotensive syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "I will monitor my weight gain during the remaining months."
Correct: Monitoring weight gain during pregnancy is an appropriate action as it helps to ensure the baby's growth and overall health.
B. "I will use only nonprescription medications while pregnant."
Incorrect: This statement indicates a need for further teaching. Nonprescription medications may not be safe during pregnancy, as some overthecounter drugs can potentially harm the
fetus. It's essential for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider before taking any medications.
C. "I will tell my doctor before using home remedies for nausea."
Correct: This statement shows the client's understanding that it's important to consult with their healthcare provider before using any home remedies during pregnancy, as some
remedies may not be safe for the developing fetus.
D. "I will reduce my stress level."
Correct: Managing stress during pregnancy is beneficial for both the mother and the baby. It indicates a good understanding of selfcare during pregnancy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is: c. The cervix is 1 cm dilated.
Choice A reason:
The presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines. This statement would be documented as -1 station. Fetal station is measured in centimeters relative to the ischial spines, with negative numbers indicating the presenting part is above the spines.
Choice B reason:
The cervix is effaced 1 cm. Effacement is measured in percentages, not centimeters. It refers to the thinning of the cervix, which progresses from 0% (not effaced) to 100% (fully effaced).
Choice C reason:
The cervix is 1 cm dilated. This means the cervix has opened 1 cm, which is a common measurement during early labor. Cervical dilation ranges from 0 cm (closed) to 10 cm (fully dilated).
Choice D reason:
The presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines. This would be documented as +1 station. Positive numbers indicate the presenting part is below the ischial spines, moving towards delivery.
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