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 on her left side.What action by the nurse takes priority?
A) Discontinue the oxygen.
B) Increase the oxytocin rate.
C) Assist the woman to a supine position.
D) Stop the oxytocin infusion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

A Nurse Assessing a Woman in Labor Notes Late Decelerations