A nurse is caring for a client who is in the first stage of labor. The nurse observes the umbilical cord protruding from the vagina. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?
Cover the cord with a sterile, moist saline dressing
Place the client in knee-chest position
Insert a gloved hand into the vagina to relieve pressure on the cord
Prepare the client for an immediate birth
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is C. Insert a gloved hand into the vagina to relieve pressure on the cord.
A. Covering the cord with a sterile, moist saline dressing is a potential action, but relieving pressure on the cord takes precedence. This can be done by manually elevating the presenting part of the fetus off the cord.
B. Placing the client in a knee-chest position may be recommended after taking the immediate action of relieving pressure on the cord. Elevating the hips may help reduce cord compression.
C. Inserting a gloved hand into the vagina to relieve pressure on the cord is the priority action.
By manually lifting the presenting part off the cord, the nurse can help restore blood flow to the fetus and prevent umbilical cord compression.
D. Preparing the client for an immediate birth may be necessary, but the immediate action to relieve pressure on the cord should be performed first. The healthcare provider will determine the need for urgent delivery based on the clinical situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS) is not appropriate. This invasive procedure involves sampling blood from the umbilical cord and is not typically used in the context of a positive contraction stress test.
Choice B Reason:
Amnioinfusion is not appropriate. Amnioinfusion is a procedure in which sterile fluid is infused into the amniotic cavity to alleviate conditions such as oligohydramnios. It is not a primary diagnostic test for assessing fetal well-being.
Choice C Reason:
Biophysical profile (BPP) is appropriate. The biophysical profile is a diagnostic test that assesses the well-being of the fetus by evaluating various parameters, including fetal heart rate, fetal breathing movements, fetal movements, fetal tone, and the amniotic fluid volume. This test provides additional information to assess fetal well-being and can help guide decisions about the timing and mode of delivery.
Choice D Reason:
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is inappropriate. CVS is a prenatal test used for diagnosing certain genetic conditions but is not indicated in the context of a positive contraction stress test.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"C"},"F":{"answers":"B"},"G":{"answers":"A"}}
Explanation
Increase the oxytocin infusion to 13 mu/min:
Anticipated: This action is anticipated. Adjusting the oxytocin infusion rate may be appropriate based on the progress of labor and the response to the current infusion rate.
Place client in a side-lying position:
Anticipated: Placing the client in a side-lying position is an anticipated action. This position can enhance fetal oxygenation and blood flow, especially if there are concerns about fetal well-being.
Initiate a bolus of primary IV fluids:
Anticipated: Initiating a bolus of primary IV fluids is an anticipated action. Adequate hydration is important during labor, and a bolus may be initiated if there are signs of dehydration or as part of the overall management plan.
Apply oxygen at 10 L/Min via a venturi mask:
Anticipated: Applying oxygen at 10 L/min via a venturi mask is an anticipated action. Oxygen may be administered to the mother to improve oxygenation and, consequently, fetal oxygenation.
Perform sterile vaginal examination (SVE):
Contraindicated: There is no indication for a sterile vaginal examination (SVE) at this time based on the information provided. Frequent unnecessary SVEs can increase the risk of infection.
Assign a Bishop score:
Nonessential: Assigning a Bishop score is not essential at this point. The client's cervical status was assessed during admission, and the current focus is on monitoring the progress of labor with oxytocin.
Perform an amniotomy:
Anticipated: Depending on the clinical situation, performing an amniotomy (artificial rupture of membranes) may be anticipated as part of the labor induction process. However, the decision should be based on the overall assessment and progress of labor.
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