A nurse is caring for a laboring person who is in the second stage of labor. What is the most important action to promote fetal descent?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: coach the person through controlled pushing. This is the most important action to promote fetal descent during the second stage of labor because pushing helps the baby move through the birth canal. Controlled pushing helps prevent exhaustion and reduces the risk of maternal injury. Increasing maternal hydration (choice B) is important for overall well-being but does not directly promote fetal descent. Comfort measures (choice C) are important for pain management but do not directly aid in fetal descent. Applying gentle pressure to the abdomen (choice D) is not recommended as it can interfere with the natural process of labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because administering IV fluids is crucial during oxytocin infusion to prevent maternal dehydration and maintain fluid balance. This helps prevent complications such as uterine hyperstimulation and fetal distress. Monitoring fetal heart rate continuously (choice A) is important but not the priority. Increasing maternal hydration (choice B) is beneficial but does not address the immediate need for fluid replacement. Assessing uterine tone (choice D) is important but secondary to ensuring adequate hydration.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because administering preoperative medication is crucial to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during the cesarean birth. Preoperative medications help reduce anxiety, prevent infection, and manage pain. Monitoring vital signs (choice B) is important but not the most critical intervention before the procedure. Ensuring proper incision care (choice C) is postoperative, not preoperative. Performing a vaginal exam (choice D) is unnecessary and potentially harmful before a cesarean birth.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: administer oxygen. Fetal bradycardia indicates decreased oxygen supply to the fetus, which can lead to fetal distress. Administering oxygen helps improve oxygen levels in the mother's blood, increasing oxygen delivery to the fetus. This intervention is crucial in preventing further complications and ensuring the well-being of the baby. Administering IV fluids (B) and increasing maternal hydration (C) may be beneficial but do not directly address the immediate need for oxygen. Increasing maternal oxygen (D) is redundant since the primary focus should be on fetal oxygenation.