The nurse is auscultating fetal heart tones in a patient who is 37 weeks' gestation. While in a supine position, the patient states, "I'm getting lightheaded and dizzy, and I feel clammy." Which of the following nursing actions is most appropriate?
1. Place a wedge beneath the patient's right hip.
2. Prepare for administration of packed red blood cells (PRBCs).
3. Help the patient turn onto her right side.
4. Administer supplemental oxygen.
Correct Answer: 1
Rationale: The patient is verbalizing symptoms consistent with supine hypotension syndrome, in which compression of the vena cava by the uterus reduces right atrial blood flow. Signs and symptoms include decreased blood pressure, dizziness, pallor, and clamminess. Appropriate interventions include having the woman lie on her left side, or placing a pillow or wedge under her right hip as she lies in a supine position.
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