The nurse notes on the fetal monitor that a laboring client has a variable deceleration. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Administer oxygen via facemask.
Turn off the oxytocin infusion
Assess cervical dilatation
Change the client's position
The Correct Answer is D
A. Administer oxygen via facemask: Oxygen administration is generally a step in managing fetal distress. However, when dealing with variable decelerations, the initial action involves repositioning the mother to alleviate potential cord compression, as variable decelerations are often due to compression of the umbilical cord.
B. Turn off the oxytocin infusion: If variable decelerations persist despite repositioning, it might be necessary to discontinue the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion temporarily. Oxytocin can cause or exacerbate uterine hyperstimulation, which can contribute to fetal distress.
C. Assess cervical dilatation: Assessing cervical dilatation might be a part of the overall assessment but might not directly address the immediate issue of variable decelerations. However, it's essential to monitor the progress of labor as part of the broader assessment.
D. Change the client's position: This is the recommended first action for variable decelerations. Repositioning the mother, such as moving her to a lateral or knee-chest position, can relieve potential cord compression and improve fetal oxygenation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cries vigorously when stimulated:
Explanation: Vigorous crying is a positive sign in a newborn. It indicates that the baby is responsive, breathing effectively, and is capable of establishing the necessary air exchange.
B. A positive Babinski reflex:
Explanation: The Babinski reflex is a normal reflex in infants where the toes spread out when the sole of the foot is stimulated. While it is a normal reflex in newborns, it might not necessarily indicate the immediate transition to extrauterine life.
C. Heart rate of 220 beats/minute:
Explanation: A heart rate of 220 beats per minute in a newborn is higher than the normal range. It could be a sign of tachycardia, and this finding might require further evaluation by healthcare providers.
D. Flexion of all four extremities:
Explanation: Flexion of extremities is a normal response in a newborn, but it might not specifically indicate successful transition. It's a common response seen in healthy newborns.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Sleep deprivation:
While sleep is important for overall well-being, it may not be the top priority in this case. Fluid volume excess, given the client's cardiac history, poses a more immediate threat to health.
B. Fluid volume excess:
Clients with heart damage are prone to heart failure, and managing fluid balance is crucial. Excess fluid can worsen cardiac function, making this the priority concern.
C. Nausea and vomiting:
While nausea and vomiting are significant concerns, they might not be as directly related to the client's cardiac history as fluid volume excess. However, if severe, it could contribute to fluid imbalance.
D. Risk for infection:
Infection is a concern for postpartum clients, but in this case, the client's history of rheumatic fever and heart damage takes precedence. The priority is to prevent complications related to heart failure.
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