A patient’s labor is induced using an intravenous infusion of 1,000 mL Ringer’s lactate with 10 units of oxytocin.
Two hours later, the nurse notes a pattern of late fetal heart rate decelerations detected on the fetal monitor.Which action is essential for the nurse to take first?
Document the findings.
Pause the oxytocin infusion.
Raise the head of the patient’s bed 30 degrees.
Notify the health care provider.
Notify the health care provider.
The Correct Answer is B
This is because late fetal heart rate decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, which means that the placenta is not delivering enough oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. Oxytocin can cause uterine tachysystole, which is excessive and frequent contractions that reduce blood flow to the placenta.Therefore, stopping the oxytocin infusion can help improve placental perfusion and fetal oxygenation.
Choice A is wrong because documenting the findings is not a priority action in this situation.
The nurse should first intervene to address the cause of late decelerations and then document the actions and outcomes.
Choice C is wrong because raising the head of the patient’s bed 30 degrees does not directly affect the placental blood flow or fetal oxygenation.
It may help with maternal comfort and breathing, but it is not an essential action for late decelerations.
Choice D is wrong because notifying the health care provider is not the first action to take.The nurse should first attempt to correct the cause of late decelerations by pausing the oxytocin infusion and then notify the health care provider if there is no improvement or if there are other signs of fetal distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. The newborn’s nostrils flare slightly during respiration.This is a sign of respiratory distress in a newborn.
Flaring nostrils indicate that the newborn is working hard to breathe and may not be getting enough oxygen.
Choice B is wrong because the newborn’s hands and feet are blue and feel cool.This is a normal finding called acrocyanosis, which occurs due to immature peripheral circulation.
It usually resolves within 24 to 48 hours after birth.
Choice C is wrong because the newborn’s eyes move randomly when his head is turned to the side.This is a normal finding called nystagmus, which occurs due to immature eye muscles and coordination.
It usually disappears by 6 months of age.
Choice D is wrong because the newborn’s tongue thrusts forward when it is lightly touched.This is a normal finding called the extrusion reflex, which helps the newborn to suck and swallow.
It usually fades by 4 months of age.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Taking mineral oil each night is not recommended for pregnant women who have hemorrhoids because it can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and cause diarrhea, which can worsen hemorrhoids.
The patient should avoid laxatives and stool softeners unless prescribed by a health care provider.
Choice A is wrong because walking at least a mile a day can help improve blood circulation and prevent constipation, which are both beneficial for hemorrhoid management.
Choice C is wrong because including foods high in fiber in the diet can help soften stools and prevent straining, which can aggravate hemorrhoids.
Choice D is wrong because drinking one extra glass of water before breakfast each morning can help hydrate the body and prevent dehydration, which can cause hard stools and increase pressure on the anal veins.
The nurse should teach the patient other strategies for hemorrhoid management, such as applying ice packs or witch hazel pads to the affected area, using sitz baths or warm water baths, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and wearing cotton underwear.
The nurse should also advise the patient to report any signs of infection or bleeding to the health care provider.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.