Nokea
A nurse on the labor and delivery unit is caring for a patient who is having induction of labor with oxytocin administered through a secondary IV line. Uterine contractions occur every 2 min, last 90 sec, and are strong to palpation. The baseline fetal heart rate is 150/min, with uniform decelerations beginning at the peak of the contraction and a return to baseline after the contraction is over. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The described scenario suggests the presence of late decelerations, which occur when uteroplacental insufficiency leads to decreased fetal oxygenation. In this case, the late decelerations are evident with each contraction, indicating a potential adverse reaction to the oxytocin infusion. The appropriate action would be to discontinue the infusion of IV oxytocin to prevent further compromise to fetal well-being. Alternatively, the nurse should consider repositioning the mother, administering oxygen via a face mask, and notifying the healthcare provider for further assessment and interventions.