A nurse is preparing to administer oxytocin to a client who is postpartum. Which of the following findings is an indication for the administration of the medication? (Select all that apply.)

The correct answer is D.

A. Slowing the client's rate of breathing is not directly related to the observed uniform decelerations. The primary concern is the fetal heart rate pattern.

B. Decreasing the rate of infusion of the maintenance IV solution is not the appropriate intervention for addressing the observed fetal heart rate decelerations. The focus should be on the oxytocin infusion rate.

C. Increasing the rate of infusion of the IV oxytocin is not the appropriate action.

The patient is already experiencing frequent and strong contractions, and increasing the oxytocin rate can exacerbate the decelerations and compromise fetal well-being.

D. Discontinuing the infusion of the IV oxytocin is the correct action.

The observed uniform decelerations are likely related to oxytocin-induced hyperstimulation of the uterus. Stopping or decreasing the oxytocin infusion allows for the uterine activity to decrease, potentially improving fetal heart rate patterns.

The correct answer is A.

A. Swelling of the face: Facial swelling, especially sudden or severe swelling, could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ dysfunction. Any new or significant facial swelling should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider for evaluation.

B. Varicose veins in the calves: Varicose veins are a common occurrence during pregnancy due to increased pressure on the veins. While they can cause discomfort, they are generally not considered a significant concern unless there are signs of complications, such as inflammation or blood clots.

C. Nonpitting 1+ ankle edema: Mild ankle edema is relatively common during pregnancy and may not be concerning unless it becomes severe, sudden, or is associated with other symptoms. Nonpitting edema is generally less concerning than pitting edema but should still be monitored.

D. Hyperpigmentation of the cheeks: Hyperpigmentation, often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" or melasma, is a common and benign condition during pregnancy. While it may be bothersome to some individuals, it is not typically a concern that requires immediate reporting to the provider.