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
The correct answer is C. Hypotension.
A. Respiratory depression is not a common complication of epidural anesthesia. It is more associated with opioid analgesics or excessive administration of other anesthetics.
B. Tachycardia is generally not associated with epidural anesthesia. It is more commonly observed in response to pain or anxiety.
C. Hypotension is a common complication of epidural anesthesia.
Epidural anesthesia can cause vasodilation, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. This is particularly common when the block is administered rapidly or with a higher dose.
D. Vomiting is not a direct complication of epidural anesthesia. Nausea and vomiting are more commonly associated with opioid analgesics or general anesthesia.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Oxygen Saturation: While oxygen saturation is important, it is not the highest priority assessment related to amniotomy. Monitoring oxygen levels is crucial during labor, but other factors take precedence
Choice B Reason:
Temperature:Correct. The nurse should prioritize monitoring the client’s temperature following an amniotomy. If the patient’s temperature is38°C (100.4°F) or higher, the nurse needs to notify the primary care physician promptly. Elevated temperature can indicate infection, which is a significant concern after the rupture of membranes.The nurse should also assess for other signs of infection, such as chills, uterine tenderness on palpation, foul-smelling vaginal drainage, and fetal tachycardia.
Choice C Reason:
Blood pressure is incorrect. Blood pressure is an essential parameter to monitor during labor, but it may not be the immediate priority when planning an amniotomy. Oxygen saturation takes precedence as it provides more direct information about the oxygenation status of both the mother and the fetus.
Choice D Reason:
Urinary output is incorrect. Urinary output is a vital sign to monitor, but it may not be the immediate priority when preparing for an amniotomy. O2 saturation is more directly relevant to the potential effects on the fetus during this intervention.
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