PN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment A Related

Review PN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment A related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving oxytocin IV for augmentation of labor. The client's contractions are occurring every 45 seconds with a duration of 90 seconds, and the fetal heart rate is 170-180/minute. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Discontinue the oxytocin infusion
  • B. Increase the oxytocin infusion
  • C. Decrease the oxytocin infusion
  • D. Maintain the oxytocin infusion
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the contractions are too frequent (tachysystole), and the fetal heart rate is elevated. Tachysystole can lead to decreased oxygen perfusion to the fetus, causing fetal distress. Therefore, the correct action for the nurse to take is to discontinue the oxytocin infusion to prevent harm to both the mother and fetus. Increasing or maintaining the oxytocin infusion would exacerbate the current situation, potentially leading to further complications. Decreasing the oxytocin infusion may not be sufficient to address the tachysystole and elevated fetal heart rate, making it an inappropriate choice.