A nurse is assisting with monitoring a client who is at 40 weeks of gestation and is in active labor. The nurse recognizes late decelerations on the fetal monitor tracing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Apply oxygen at 10 L/min via face mask
- B. Position the client on their side
- C. Call for a Cesarean delivery
- D. Administer oxytocin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Late decelerations indicate uteroplacental insufficiency, and the priority nursing action is to improve placental perfusion. Positioning the client on their side, particularly the left side, can enhance blood flow to the placenta and fetus by reducing pressure on the vena cava and increasing cardiac output. Applying oxygen, although helpful, is not the initial priority in this situation. Calling for a Cesarean delivery is not warranted unless other interventions fail to correct the late decelerations. Administering oxytocin can worsen the condition by increasing uterine contractions, exacerbating fetal distress.
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A client who is postpartum is being taught about breast care by a nurse. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
- A. I will wear tight-fitting bras to reduce discomfort
- B. I will nurse my baby frequently to prevent engorgement
- C. I will pump my breasts every 4 hours
- D. I will avoid nursing for at least 48 hours
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Nursing the baby frequently helps prevent engorgement and discomfort in breastfeeding mothers. Choice A is incorrect because tight-fitting bras can lead to clogged milk ducts and worsen discomfort. Choice C may lead to oversupply issues and is not necessary unless there is a specific indication. Choice D is incorrect as avoiding nursing for extended periods can lead to engorgement and decreased milk supply.
What are the primary goals of post-operative care for a patient who has undergone abdominal surgery?
- A. Pain Management
- B. Wound Care
- C. Prevention of Complications
- D. Digestive Function
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pain Management. After abdominal surgery, one of the primary goals of post-operative care is to manage the patient's pain effectively to ensure their comfort and promote recovery. While wound care, prevention of complications, and ensuring digestive function are also important aspects of post-operative care, pain management takes precedence as it directly impacts the patient's well-being and recovery process.
What is an important consideration when administering a blood transfusion?
- A. Ensure the blood is compatible with the recipient's blood type
- B. Warm the blood to body temperature before administration
- C. Check the blood for clots before administration
- D. Ensure the recipient eats before the transfusion
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to ensure the blood is compatible with the recipient's blood type. This is crucial to prevent transfusion reactions, which can be life-threatening. Choice B is incorrect because warming blood to body temperature is not a standard practice and may lead to hemolysis. Choice C is incorrect as blood products are carefully screened for clots before distribution. Choice D is incorrect because it is not necessary for the recipient to eat before a blood transfusion.
What should a healthcare professional do when they observe signs of phlebitis in a client receiving IV fluids?
- A. Apply a cold compress
- B. Notify the physician immediately
- C. Apply a warm compress
- D. Administer anti-inflammatory medication
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When signs of phlebitis are observed in a client receiving IV fluids, the appropriate action is to apply a warm compress. This helps to reduce discomfort and swelling at the site of the IV insertion. Applying a cold compress may not be as effective in this case and could potentially worsen the condition. While notifying the physician is important, providing immediate comfort to the client through a warm compress is the initial recommended intervention. Administering anti-inflammatory medication should only be done under the direction of a healthcare provider after assessment and evaluation of the client's condition.
A nurse is caring for a client with dementia who is at risk of falls. What is the most appropriate intervention?
- A. Use a bed exit alarm to notify staff of attempts to leave the bed
- B. Raise all four side rails for safety
- C. Encourage frequent ambulation with assistance
- D. Use restraints to prevent the client from getting out of bed
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most appropriate intervention for a client with dementia at risk of falls is to use a bed exit alarm to notify staff of attempts to leave the bed. This intervention allows for timely assistance and prevents falls. Raising all four side rails (Choice B) can lead to entrapment or agitate the client. Encouraging frequent ambulation with assistance (Choice C) may not be suitable for a client at high risk of falls. Using restraints (Choice D) should be avoided as they can increase agitation, risk of injury, and have ethical implications.