Free NCLEX Maternity Questions Related

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The nurse observes on the monitor tracing of the client in the transition phase of labor that the baseline FHR is 160 and that there is moderate variability with V-shaped decelerations unrelated to contractions. What should the nurse do first?

  • A. Prepare for delivery.
  • B. Notify the obstetrician.
  • C. Apply oxygen nasally.
  • D. Reposition the client.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Repositioning the client to her side or to knee-chest should be done first to take the pressure off the umbilical cord. Variable decelerations usually result from cord compression and stretching during fetal descent. The fetus has a normal baseline HR and good variability. There is no indication that immediate delivery is necessary. Other measures could correct the V-shaped (variable) decelerations. Other nursing measures are used to correct the V-shaped (variable) decelerations prior to contacting the obstetrician (or midwife). Repositioning the client should be implemented prior to giving her oxygen.