Intrapartum Complication Related

Review Intrapartum Complication related questions and content

Which of the following is the priority intervention for a supine patient whose monitor strip shows decelerations that begin after the peak of the contraction and return to the baseline after the contraction ends?

  • A. Increase IV infusion.
  • B. Elevate lower extremities.
  • C. Reposition to left side-lying position.
  • D. Administer oxygen per face mask at 4 to 6 L/minut
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Reposition to left side-lying position. This is the priority intervention because decelerations that start after the peak of the contraction and return to baseline after it ends suggest umbilical cord compression. Repositioning the patient to the left side-lying position can alleviate pressure on the cord, potentially improving fetal perfusion.

Increasing IV infusion (A) may not directly address the cord compression. Elevating lower extremities (B) may not alleviate the pressure on the cord. Administering oxygen (D) may be beneficial, but repositioning the patient is the primary intervention to address the underlying issue.