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?
Increase the rate of infusion of the IV oxytocin,
Discontinue the infusion of the IV oxytocin.
Decrease the rate of infusion of the maintenance IV selution.
Slow the client's rate of breathing.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Incorrect. Increasing the rate of infusion of the IV oxytocin would worsen the uterine hyperstimulation and fetal distress that are indicated by the frequent, long, and strong contractions and uniform decelerations.
B. Correct. Discontinuing the infusion of the IV oxytocin would stop the uterine hyperstimulation and allow the fetus to recover from hypoxia.
C. Incorrect. Decreasing the rate of infusion of the maintenance IV solution would not affect the uterine hyperstimulation or fetal distress, as they are caused by the oxytocin, not by the fluid volume.
D. Incorrect. Slowing the client's rate of breathing would not help with the uterine hyperstimulation or fetal distress, as they are not related to maternal hyperventilation or respiratory alkalosis.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A: Taking deep, cleansing breaths and breathing naturally is not the appropriate technique during the crowning phase of labor, as it can increase the risk of rapid birth and potential perineal trauma.
C: During a precipitous labor with the baby's head crowning, the nurse should encourage the mother to perform blowing or panting breaths during contractions. This technique helps to slow down the delivery process and allows the perineum to stretch gradually, reducing the risk of tearing or other trauma.
B: In the case of precipitous labor, actively pushing as hard as possible can increase the risk of rapid birth and potential complications for both the mother and the baby.
D: Slowpaced breathing patterns are not recommended during the crowning phase of labor, as they may not effectively control the birth process.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Pain above the umbilicus may be associated with various conditions during pregnancy, but it is not a definitive sign of labor.
Choice B: The presence of amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault (rupture of membranes or "water breaking") can be a sign of labor, but it is not the most specific indicator.
Choice C: Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate the passage of old blood or "bloody show," which can be a sign of impending labor. However, it is not as reliable as cervical dilation.
Choice D: Cervical dilation is one of the most definitive signs of labor. As the cervix opens and thins (effaces), it allows for the baby's passage through the birth canal. Cervical dilation is an essential indicator of active labor.
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