A pregnant woman's amniotic membranes rupture and a prolapsed umbilical cord is found. What intervention would be the first priority?
Placing the woman in the knee-chest position.
Starting oxygen by facemask.
Preparing the woman for a vaginal birth.
Covering the cord in sterile gauze soaked in saline.
The Correct Answer is A
In the case of a prolapsed umbilical cord, the first priority intervention is to relieve pressure on the cord. Placing the woman in the knee-chest position or Trendelenburg position with the hips elevated is the best way to achieve this. This position helps to reduce the compression of the cord and improve fetal oxygenation.
Option B is incorrect because while oxygen may be necessary, relieving pressure on the cord is the priority.
Option C is incorrect because a vaginal birth should not proceed with a prolapsed umbilical cord, as it can cause cord compression and fetal distress.
Option D is incorrect because covering the cord in sterile gauze soaked in saline is not a priority intervention and may not be effective in relieving pressure on the cord.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The question that the nurse would prioritize the least during the assessment is "Do you plan to have a vaginal or cesarean delivery?" This is because the priority at this point is to determine the urgency of the situation and assess the patient's current condition. The patient's delivery plan can be addressed later after the initial assessment is completed and the patient's stability has been established.
The other questions are all important in determining the cause and severity of the bleeding and the appropriate course of action. The question about the number of weeks is important to determine the gestational age and potential causes of bleeding, as some causes are more common in certain stages of pregnancy. The question about pain can help to determine the possible causes of bleeding and the patient's comfort level. The question about the last ultrasound is important to determine the location of the placenta and whether there are any abnormalities or potential complications.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression, and a respiratory rate of 10 breaths/minute is significantly lower than the normal range of 12-20 breaths/minute. Other factors such as blood pressure of 138/88, the urinary output of 40 ml/hr, and patellar reflex of +2 should also be monitored, but they would not necessarily warrant immediate discontinuation of the magnesium sulfate infusion.
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