A nurse on a labor unit is admitting a client who 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 92/54 mm Hg. Which of the following is the priority action for the nurse to take?
Have the client void.
Position the client with one hip elevated.
Ask the client if she needs pain medication.
Notify the provider of the findings.
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is B. Position the client with one hip elevated.
A. Having the client void is a good practice, but it is not the priority action in this situation. The client's vital signs suggest a potential issue with uteroplacental perfusion, and repositioning the client should be the priority.
B. Positioning the client with one hip elevated is the priority action.
The vital signs, specifically the low blood pressure, may be indicative of aortocaval compression (supine hypotension). Elevating one hip helps alleviate this compression, improving blood flow and potentially addressing the decreased blood pressure.
C. Asking the client if she needs pain medication is important, but repositioning the client takes precedence due to the potential issue with blood pressure and uteroplacental perfusion.
D. Notifying the provider is important, but repositioning the client to improve blood flow should be done first. The provider may be notified afterward based on the client's response and ongoing assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I should have a goal of maintaining my fasting blood glucose between 100 and 120." This statement does not indicate understanding of the teaching. Recommended target for fasting blood glucose levels during pregnancy in women with diabetes is typically lower, often between 60 and 90 mg/dL.
Choice B Reason:
"I should engage in moderate exercise for 30 minutes if my blood glucose is 250 or greater." This statement does not indicate understanding of the teaching . Exercising when blood glucose is already elevated to 250 or greater may not be safe. Exercise is generally recommended to help manage blood glucose levels, but the specific approach and timing should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
Choice C Reason:
"I will continue taking my insulin if I experience nausea and vomiting." This statement reflects an awareness of the importance of continuing insulin administration even if the client is experiencing nausea and vomiting. Consistent insulin management is crucial for maintaining blood glucose levels within the target range during pregnancy.
Choice D Reason:
"I will ensure that my bedtime snack is high in refined sugar." This statement does not indicate understanding of the teaching. Bedtime snacks should focus on providing sustained energy and stabilizing blood glucose levels. A snack high in refined sugar is not recommended as it can lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A.
A. Determine respiratory function: The priority is to assess the client's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs). If the client becomes unresponsive, the nurse should quickly assess whether the airway is clear, check for breathing, and determine if there is a pulse. This initial assessment is crucial for identifying and addressing any immediate life-threatening issues.
B. Increase the TV fluid rate: While fluid administration may be necessary in certain situations, it is not the first priority when a client becomes unresponsive. Assessing respiratory function and circulation takes precedence to address immediate life-threatening concerns.
C. Access emergency medications from the cart: Accessing emergency medications may be necessary, but it should occur after the initial assessment of the client's airway, breathing, and circulation. Administering medications without first assessing the client's ABCs may delay appropriate interventions.
D. Collect a maternal blood sample for coagulopathy studies: This action is important for assessing coagulation status, but it is not the first priority when a client becomes unresponsive. The immediate focus should be on ensuring the client has a patent airway, is breathing, and has a pulse.
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