While auscultating fetal heart tones, a client who is at 37 weeks' gestation and is in the supine position is experiencing dizziness, lightheadedness, and clammy skin. Which nursing action is the most appropriate?
1. Administer supplemental oxygen.
2. Help the client turn onto her right side.
3. Place a wedge beneath the client's right hip.
4. Prepare for administration of packed red blood cells (PRBCs).
3
Explanation:
1. Supplemental oxygen is not required for supine hypotension syndrome.
2. Positioning the client on her right side would likely exacerbate the reduction in right atrial blood flow.
3. The client 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.
4. Packed red blood cell infusion is not required to treat supine hypotension syndrome.
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