HESI Exit Exam RN Capstone Related

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A client in labor is experiencing late decelerations in fetal heart rate. What intervention should the nurse perform first?

  • A. Reposition the client onto her left side.
  • B. Apply oxygen via nasal cannula.
  • C. Prepare for an emergency cesarean section.
  • D. Increase IV fluid administration to improve perfusion.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Late decelerations indicate fetal distress due to compromised placental perfusion. Repositioning the client onto her left side is the priority intervention as it can increase blood flow to the placenta, improving fetal oxygenation. Applying oxygen via nasal cannula (choice B) can be the next step after repositioning if late decelerations persist. Emergency cesarean section (choice C) is not the initial action for late decelerations unless other interventions are ineffective. Increasing IV fluid administration (choice D) is not the first-line intervention for late decelerations; repositioning takes precedence to address the underlying cause.