A nurse assessing a woman in labor notes late decelerations on the fetal monitor and documents contractions occurring every 1 to 2 minutes. Oxytocin (Pitocin) is being infused IV, and oxygen is being delivered at 8 L/min per mask. The woman is positioned
A.
Discontinue the oxygen.
B.
Increase the oxytocin rate.
C.
Assist the woman to a supine position.
D.
Stop the oxytocin infusion.
ANS: D
Late decelerations are a sign of uteroplacental insufficiency and are often indicative of hypoxia and metabolic acidemia. Contractions that occur this frequently signify uterine hyperstimulation. Both circumstances indicate that the oxytocin should be stopped immediately. Discontinuing the oxygen and increasing the oxytocin infusion are both contraindicated. Placing the woman in a supine position can lead to maternal hypotension, worsening this situation.
You might also like to view...
People's personalities are determined during the early years of life and remain unchanged throughout adulthood
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
The pediatric nurse is caring for a hospitalized child with cirrhosis who has 4+ pitting edema. Which laboratory value would the nurse correlate with the edema?
A. Albumin: low B. Cholesterol: low C. Prothrombin time: high D. White blood cell count: high
An enlarged prostate can cause urinary problems in men
Indicate whether the statement is true or false
A clinic nurse explains to the pregnant woman that the amount of amniotic fluid present at 24 weeks' gestation is approximately:
a. 500 mL b. 750 mL c. 800 mL d. 1000 mL