Adult Health Nursing Test Banks Related

Review Adult Health Nursing Test Banks related questions and content

A woman in active labor is experiencing a shoulder dystocia during delivery. What nursing intervention should be prioritized?

  • A. Apply suprapubic pressure to dislodge the shoulder.
  • B. Perform an episiotomy to facilitate delivery.
  • C. Insert an oropharyngeal airway to maintain airway patency.
  • D. Administer intravenous magnesium sulfate for uterine relaxation.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency where one of the baby's shoulders becomes impacted behind the mother's pubic bone after the head delivers. This can lead to compression of the umbilical cord and compromise fetal oxygenation. The most critical nursing intervention in managing shoulder dystocia is applying suprapubic pressure to dislodge the impacted shoulder and allow for delivery of the baby. By gently pushing downwards on the mother's abdomen just above the pubic bone, the shoulder can be released, and the baby can be delivered successfully. This intervention should be prioritized to prevent potential complications for both the mother and the baby. Episiotomy may be considered if necessary, but it is secondary to addressing the shoulder dystocia. Oropharyngeal airway insertion and administering magnesium sulfate are not indicated in the immediate management of shoulder dystocia.