A nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and notes late decelerations in the FHR on the external fetal monitor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
- A. Change the client's position
- B. Palpate the uterus to assess for tachysystole
- C. Increase the client's IV infusion rate
- D. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via nonrebreather mask
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The first action should be to change the client's position, as this can relieve pressure on the umbilical cord and improve fetal oxygenation, addressing the cause of late decelerations.
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Which of the following interventions is most appropriate for a client with hyperemesis gravidarum?
- A. Encourage high-calorie meals
- B. Administer intravenous fluids
- C. Provide frequent small meals
- D. Limit fluid intake
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The priority intervention is to administer intravenous fluids to maintain hydration.
A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving oxytocin to augment labor. The client has an intrauterine pressure catheter and an internal fetal scalp electrode for monitoring. Which of the following is an indication that the nurse should discontinue the infusion?
- A. Contraction frequency every 3 min
- B. Contraction duration of 100 seconds
- C. Fetal heart rate with moderate variability
- D. Fetal heart rate of 118/min
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A contraction duration of 100 seconds indicates potential uterine hyperstimulation, which can lead to fetal distress and decreased uterine perfusion. The nurse should discontinue the oxytocin infusion immediately to ensure the safety of both mother and fetus.
A nurse is assessing a client who gave birth 12 hr ago and is experiencing excessive vaginal bleeding. Which of the following findings indicates the client is experiencing decreased cardiac output?
- A. Bradycardia
- B. Flushed face
- C. Hypotension
- D. Polyuria
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Hypotension is a key indicator of decreased cardiac output, especially in the context of postpartum hemorrhage, which can lead to significant fluid volume loss and compromise perfusion.
A nurse is providing discharge instructions to parents of a circumcised newborn. To prevent diaper adherence to the penis, what will be recommended to apply during diaper changes?
- A. Baby oil
- B. Antibiotic ointment
- C. Petroleum jelly
- D. Alcohol wipes
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Petroleum jelly is recommended to prevent the diaper from sticking to the circumcised area, reducing irritation and promoting healing. It should be applied during every diaper change until the site heals.
A nurse is assessing a newborn who is 48 hr old and has a maternal history of methadone use during pregnancy. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as an indication of neonatal abstinence syndrome?
- A. Hyporeactivity
- B. Excessive high-pitched cry
- C. Acrocyanosis
- D. Respiratory rate of 50/min
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: An excessive high-pitched cry is a classic sign of neonatal abstinence syndrome, indicating withdrawal from substances such as methadone. Other signs may include irritability and tremors.