RN Maternal Newborn Online Practice 2019 A Related

Review RN Maternal Newborn Online Practice 2019 A related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who is in the first stage of labor. The nurse observes the umbilical cord protruding from the vagina. Which of the following actions should the nurse perform first?

  • A. Cover the cord with a sterile, moist saline dressing.
  • B. Prepare the client for an immediate birth.
  • C. Place the client in knee-chest position.
  • D. Insert a gloved hand into the vagina to relieve pressure on the cord. Rationale: This is the first nursing action because it is essential to prevent any pressure on the umbilical cord to promote oxygenation of the fetus.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to perform first when observing the umbilical cord protruding from the vagina during the first stage of labor is to insert a gloved hand into the vagina to relieve pressure on the cord. This is crucial to prevent compression of the cord, which could compromise oxygenation to the fetus. By gently lifting the presenting part off the cord, the nurse can help maintain blood flow and prevent fetal distress. Once the pressure on the cord is relieved, additional interventions such as preparing the client for immediate birth, covering the cord with a sterile, moist saline dressing, or positioning the client in knee-chest position may be necessary depending on the clinical situation. But the priority is to relieve pressure on the umbilical cord promptly to ensure the well-being of the fetus.