The nurse is reviewing the client's prescriptions.

Exhibits

The nurse is administering medications to the client and is monitoring potential adverse effects of medications

For each body system below, click to specify the assessment findings that could indicate a serious adverse reaction. Each body system may support more than 1 potential assessment finding. To deselect a finding click on the finding again.

Body system	Findings
Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Throat (HEENT)	Yellowing of the eyes Blurred vision Dry eyes
Gastrointestinal	Abdominal pain Weight gain
Hematologic	Increased bruising Increased bleeding tendency Insomnia
Genitourinary	Darkening of the urine Urinary frequency

A. "I can have a meal up to 2 hours before the procedure." Eating before an intravenous pyelogram (IVP) is not recommended, as fasting is typically required to prevent interference with imaging and reduce the risk of nausea from the contrast dye. Clients are usually instructed to refrain from eating for several hours before the procedure.
B. "I should limit my fluid intake for 2 days after the procedure." Increasing, rather than limiting, fluid intake is advised after the procedure to help flush the contrast dye from the kidneys and reduce the risk of nephrotoxicity. Adequate hydration is essential for kidney function following contrast administration.
C. "I do not need to sign a consent form before this procedure." An IVP involves the injection of contrast dye, which carries risks such as allergic reactions and kidney impairment. Because it is an invasive diagnostic procedure, informed consent is required before proceeding.
D. "I will feel a warming sensation after the injection of the dye." The contrast dye used in an IVP often causes a transient warm or flushed feeling, as well as a metallic taste in the mouth. This is a common and expected reaction, indicating that the client understands the procedure.

Rationale for Correct Options:

1. Late decelerations on fetal heart rate (FHR) – First Priority

Late decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, meaning the fetus is not receiving adequate oxygen. This is the most urgent concern because prolonged fetal distress can lead to hypoxia and acidosis, increasing the risk of complications such as stillbirth or emergency cesarean birth. Nursing Actions: Reposition the client to left lateral position to improve placental perfusion. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via a non-rebreather mask. Increase IV fluids to improve maternal circulation. Stop oxytocin if it's being used, as it may be causing excessive contractions. Notify the provider immediately for further interventions, such as potential intrauterine resuscitation or emergent delivery.

1. Positive Group B streptococcus (GBS) status – Second Priority

The client tested positive for GBS, a bacterial infection that can be transmitted to the newborn during birth, leading to neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, or meningitis. While this is a significant concern, it is secondary to the immediate fetal distress from late decelerations. Nursing Actions: Administer IV antibiotics (penicillin G or an alternative) as ordered to prevent neonatal infection. Monitor for signs of infection in the newborn after delivery.

Rationale for Incorrect Options:

• Severe back pain rated 10/10 – Pain management is important, but fetal distress takes precedence over maternal discomfort.
• Restlessness and irritability – These could indicate maternal distress or labor progression, but they are not as urgent as fetal oxygenation.
• Increasing contraction intensity and frequency – This is expected as labor progresses but is not immediately life-threatening.
• Fatigue and emotional distress – While support is essential, it is not a priority over fetal well-being or preventing neonatal infection.