For which patient should the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion be discontinued immediately?
A woman in early labor with contractions every 5 minutes lasting 40 seconds each.
A woman in active labor with contractions every 30 minutes lasting 60 seconds each.
A woman in active labor with contractions every 2 to 3 minutes lasting 70 to 80 seconds each.
A woman in transition with contractions every 1.5 minutes lasting 95 seconds each.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason:
The woman in early labor with contractions every 5 minutes lasting 40 seconds each does not require the immediate discontinuation of the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion. Early labor is characterized by mild and infrequent contractions as the cervix begins to dilate and efface. Choice B reason:
The woman in active labor with contractions every 30 minutes lasting 60 seconds each also does not warrant immediate discontinuation of the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion. Active labor typically involves regular and stronger contractions as the cervix continues to dilate and the baby progresses downward.
Choice C reason:
The woman in active labor with contractions every 2 to 3 minutes lasting 70 to 80 seconds each does not require immediate cessation of the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion. These contractions are within the expected range for active labor and may be considered normal.
Choice D reason:
The woman in transition with contractions every 1.5 minutes lasting 95 seconds each should have the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion discontinued immediately. Transition is the most intense phase of labor, characterized by rapid and strong contractions as the cervix completes dilation. Prolonged and frequent contractions during this phase can lead to uterine hyperstimulation, which can compromise fetal oxygenation and result in fetal distress. Discontinuing the oxytocin infusion is necessary to reduce the intensity and frequency of contractions, ensuring better fetal well-being during this critical phase of labor.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Measuring urinary output. This is not the priority nursing care associated with an oxytocin infusion, because urinary output is not directly affected by oxytocin. Urinary output may be affected by other factors, such as fluid intake, dehydration, or kidney function, but these are not related to oxytocin administration. • Choice B reason:
Evaluating cervical dilation. This is also not the priority nursing care associated with an oxytocin infusion, because cervical dilation is a result of uterine contractions, not oxytocin itself. Oxytocin is used to stimulate or augment uterine contractions, but it does not cause cervical dilation directly. Cervical dilation is important to monitor during labor, but it is not the main focus of oxytocin infusion. • Choice C reason:
Increasing infusion rate every 30 minutes. This is not the priority nursing care associated with an oxytocin infusion, because increasing the infusion rate every 30 minutes is not a standard protocol for oxytocin administration. The infusion rate should be adjusted according to the patient's response and the provider's orders, but not arbitrarily or routinely. Increasing the infusion rate too quickly or too often can cause hyperstimulation of the uterus, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus.
• Choice D reason:
Monitoring uterine response. This is the correct answer and the priority nursing care associated with an oxytocin infusion, because oxytocin can cause excessive or prolonged uterine contractions, which can lead to fetal distress, uterine rupture, or placental abruption. Therefore, the nurse must monitor the frequency, duration, and intensity of uterine contractions, as well as the fetal heart rate and blood pressure, to ensure that oxytocin is having the desired effect and not causing any adverse outcomes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Babinski's Reflex is the normal response in infants when the sole of the foot is stroked from the heel to the ball of the foot. The big toe moves upward or toward the top surface of the foot, and the other toes fan out. This reflex is normal in children up to 2 years old, and it disappears as the nervous system matures. It may indicate damage to the central nervous system in older children and adults.
Choice B reason:
Stepping Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are held upright with their feet touching a flat surface. They will lift one foot and then the other, as if they are walking. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 2 months. It helps prepare the infant for voluntary walking.
Choice C reason:
Moro Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are startled by a loud noise or a sudden movement. They will extend their arms and legs, open their hands, and then curl up and bring their arms together as if they are hugging themselves. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 4 to 6 months. It is thought to be a protective response that helps the infant cling to their caregiver.
Choice D reason:
Plantar Grasp Reflex is the normal response in infants when pressure is applied to the sole of the foot near the toes. The toes will curl down and grasp the stimulus. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 9 to 12 months. It is similar to the palmar grasp reflex in the hands, and it helps develop the muscles and nerves in the feet. Some additional sentences are:. If you are interested in learning more about infant development, you can check out some of these links:. • [A guide to newborn reflexes]. • [A video demonstration of newborn reflexes].
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