A nurse on the labor and delivery unit is caring for a patient who is having induction of labor with oxytocin administered through a secondary IV line. Uterine contractions occur every 2
minutes, last 90 seconds, and are strong to palpation. The baseline fetal heart rate is 150/minute, with uniform decelerations beginning at the peak of the contraction and a return to baseline after the contraction is over.

Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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.

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.