Intrapartum Complications Nursing Related

Review Intrapartum Complications Nursing related questions and content

The patient presenting at 38 weeks' gestation, gravida 1, para 0, vaginal exam 4 cm, 100% effaced, +1 station vertex. What is the most likely intervention for this fetal heart rate pattern?

  • A. Continue oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion.
  • B. Contact the anesthesia department for epidural administration.
  • C. Change maternal position.
  • D. Administer Narcan to patient and prepare for immediate vaginal delivery.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Change maternal position. At 38 weeks' gestation with 4 cm dilation and 100% effacement, the fetal heart rate pattern suggests possible umbilical cord compression due to the +1 station vertex position. Changing maternal position can relieve this compression, improving fetal heart rate. Continuing oxytocin infusion (A) can worsen the situation by increasing contractions. Contacting anesthesia for epidural (B) is not indicated as it doesn't address the immediate concern. Administering Narcan and preparing for immediate delivery (D) is unnecessary and not supported by the given scenario.