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 D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Hct 39.6 is incorrect. This hemoglobin level is within a typical range and may not require immediate intervention.
Choice B Reason:
Serum albumin 4.5 g/dL is incorrect. A serum albumin level of 4.5 g/dL is within the normal range and does not suggest an urgent issue.
Choice C Reason:
WBC 9,000/mm³ is incorrect. A white blood cell count of 9,000/mm³ is within the normal range and is not typically a cause for immediate concern in the absence of other symptoms or indications.
Choice D Reason:
Platelets 50,000/mm³ is correct. A platelet count of 50,000/mm³ is significantly below the normal range and may indicate thrombocytopenia, a condition associated with preeclampsi
A. Thrombocytopenia in preeclampsia can lead to bleeding complications and requires close monitoring and management.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is C. Observe for crowning.
A. Applying fundal pressure is not indicated when the fetal head is at 3+ station. Fundal pressure is generally discouraged as it can increase the risk of fetal and maternal complications.
B. Preparing to administer oxytocin may be necessary later in labor but is not the immediate priority when the fetal head is still at 3+ station.
C. Observing for crowning is the correct action.
Crowning occurs when the widest part of the fetal head is visible at the vaginal opening during contractions. It is a sign that the baby is descending and the client is in the second stage of labor.
D. Observing for the presence of a nuchal cord is a valid consideration, but observing for crowning takes precedence at this stage of labor. Nuchal cords can be managed appropriately once the fetal head has descended further.
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