What could be the primary reason for early decelerations in the fetal heart rate (FHR) pattern?

Choice A rationale
A cesarean section will be necessary if vaginal lesions are present at the time of labor. This is to prevent the transmission of the herpes virus to the baby during delivery, which can lead to serious complications such as neonatal herpes, a potentially deadly infection.
Choice B rationale
While sitz baths can help alleviate the discomfort caused by genital herpes lesions, they do not directly protect the fetus from herpes infection. The primary purpose of sitz baths in this context is to provide symptomatic relief to the mother.

Choice C rationale
The newborn will not necessarily be observed and treated in the neonatal intensive care unit just because the mother has genital herpes. The need for neonatal intensive care would depend on various factors, including whether the baby contracts the virus during delivery.
Choice D rationale
Total abstinence from sexual intercourse is not necessary during the entire pregnancy. However, it is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse during active outbreaks to reduce the risk of transmission.
Choice E rationale
Daily administration of Valacyclovir (Valtrex) is necessary after the 36th week of pregnancy. This is known as suppressive therapy, which can help reduce the risk of an outbreak at the time of delivery and thereby reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to the baby.

Choice A rationale
Assisting with amnioinfusion is not the first priority. Amnioinfusion is a procedure where a sterile solution is introduced into the uterus to increase the volume of fluid around the fetus. It is typically used in cases of oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) or to dilute thick meconium in the amniotic fluid.
Choice B rationale
Inserting a scalp electrode is not the first priority. A scalp electrode is a device used to monitor the fetal heart rate more accurately. It is usually used when external monitoring does not provide a clear reading or when there is a need for continuous detailed monitoring.

Choice C rationale
Changing the woman’s position is the correct action. Late decelerations in the fetal heart rate can be a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency, a condition where the placenta cannot deliver adequate oxygen to the fetus. Changing the woman’s position can improve placental blood flow and potentially improve the oxygen supply to the fetus.
Choice D rationale
Notifying the health care provider is important but not the first priority. The nurse should first attempt interventions such as changing the woman’s position to improve the fetal heart rate.