Maternal Monitoring During Labor Related

Review Maternal Monitoring During Labor related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a 38-week pregnant patient who is experiencing a decrease in fetal movement. Which of the following should be the nurse's first action?

  • A. Encourage the patient to drink a cold beverage and lie down.
  • B. Instruct the patient to wait 24 hours and monitor fetal movements.
  • C. Order an ultrasound to check the baby's health.
  • D. Call the healthcare provider immediately to report the decrease in movement.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to drink a cold beverage and lie down. This is the correct action as it promotes fetal movement by stimulating the baby with a change in temperature and position. It is a non-invasive and immediate measure that can be taken by the patient herself.

Choice B is incorrect because waiting 24 hours could delay necessary intervention if the fetus is in distress. Choice C is incorrect as ordering an ultrasound may not be the most immediate or necessary action at this point. Choice D is incorrect as calling the healthcare provider immediately may not be necessary if the issue can be resolved by the patient changing her position and trying to stimulate fetal movement first.