The nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving oxytocin to promote labor and notes late decelerations on the fetal monitor.Which is the nurse's priority of care?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Late decelerations on the fetal monitor indicate fetal distress and are often caused by uteroplacental insufficiency, which means there is not enough blood flow to the fetus. Discontinuing oxytocin, which can contribute to uterine hyperstimulation and compromise fetal oxygenation, is the priority of care in this situation. Administering tocolytics or increasing IV fluids would not address the underlying issue of uteroplacental insufficiency and may even exacerbate the problem. Performing Leopold's maneuver is not indicated for addressing fetal distress.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Is Receiving