RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam Related

Review RN Maternal Nursing OB Newborn 2023 2024 Exam related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving oxytocin via continuous IV infusion and is experiencing persistent late decelerations in the FHR. After discontinuing the infusion, which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Instruct the client to bear down and push with contractions.
  • B. Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via nonrebreather facemask.
  • C. Place the client in a supine position.
  • D. Initiate an amnioinfusion.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via nonrebreather facemask. Late decelerations in FHR during oxytocin infusion indicate uteroplacental insufficiency. Administering oxygen helps improve oxygenation to the fetus, potentially alleviating the late decelerations. This action addresses the underlying cause and supports fetal oxygenation. In contrast, option A may increase intrauterine pressure, worsening fetal distress. Option C (supine position) can further compromise placental perfusion. Option D (amnioinfusion) is used for variable decelerations, not late decelerations.