Adult Health Med Surg Nursing Test Banks Related

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A woman in active labor experiences frequent and intense uterine contractions with minimal rest intervals, leading to maternal fatigue and decreased fetal oxygenation. What maternal condition should the nurse assess for that may contribute to this abnormal labor pattern?

  • A. Maternal dehydration
  • B. Uterine hyperstimulation
  • C. Pelvic outlet obstruction
  • D. Maternal exhaustion
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Uterine hyperstimulation is a condition in which the uterus contracts too frequently or too intensely, leading to decreased blood flow and oxygenation to the placenta. This can result in maternal fatigue and decreased fetal oxygenation due to the lack of sufficient rest intervals between contractions. Uterine hyperstimulation can be caused by factors such as the use of synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin) to induce or augment labor, uterine abnormalities, or maternal conditions like pre-eclampsia. It is important for the nurse to assess for uterine hyperstimulation in a woman experiencing frequent and intense contractions to intervene promptly and prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby.