A nurse is assisting with a forceps delivery.After the forceps are applied,the nurse notes fetal bradycardia.What action by the nurse takes priority?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the forceps are applied,umbilical cord compression can occur.Compression of the cord causes a decrease in the fetal heart rate.The nurse should immediately inform the provider so that the pressure can be released.The nurse is responsible for documenting the fetal heart rate before and immediately after forceps application,but relieving the pressure on the umbilical cord takes priority.The nurse should not wait 5 minutes for another assessment,nor should the nurse turn the patient on her side as a first action.

A Nurse Is Assisting with a Forceps Delivery