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On admission to the labor and birth unit, a 38-year-old female, gravida 4, para 3, at term in early labor is found to have a transverse lie on vaginal examination. What is the priority intervention at this time?

  • A. Perform a vaginal exam to denote progress.
  • B. Notify the health care provider.
  • C. Initiate parenteral therapy.
  • D. Apply oxygen via nasal cannula at 8 L/minut
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Notify the health care provider. In the case of a transverse lie, the fetus is positioned sideways in the uterus, which can lead to complications during labor. Notifying the health care provider is crucial as they will need to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action, such as attempting to manually rotate the fetus or preparing for a cesarean section if necessary. Performing a vaginal exam (choice A) may not be safe or effective in this situation. Initiating parenteral therapy (choice C) and applying oxygen (choice D) are not the priority interventions in the case of a transverse lie.