The membranes of a client in labor have spontaneously ruptured and the fluid is meconium stained. The fetal heart tones are 100 to
105) Which nursing action is most important?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Meconium-stained amniotic fluid indicates fetal distress, as the fetus may have passed fecal material into the amniotic fluid due to increased stress. Changing the client's position from Fowler to left lateral can relieve pressure on the umbilical cord and improve fetal oxygenation. This is the most appropriate action to take at this time. A cesarean may be indicated if fetal distress continues, but it is not the most important action at this time. Inserting a Foley catheter and decreasing IV fluids may be appropriate interventions, but they are not the most important action to take in this situation.

The Membranes of a Client in Labor Have Spontaneously Ruptured