If the position of a fetus in a cephalic presentation is right occiput anterior, the nurse should assess the fetal heart rate in which quadrant of the maternal abdomen?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When the fetus is in a right occiput anterior position, the back of the fetus is on the mother's right side, and the fetal heart is also located on the right side of the mother's abdomen. It is typically heard in the lower right quadrant due to the location of the fetal back and heart. The nurse should assess the fetal heart rate in the right lower quadrant of the maternal abdomen to accurately assess the well-being of the fetus in this position.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The fetal heart rate pattern described in the question, which likely includes decelerations, is indicative of cord compression. Cord compression occurs when there is pressure on the umbilical cord, leading to temporary reduction or blockage of blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus. This can result in variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate pattern. Common scenarios that can cause cord compression include changes in fetal position, cord prolapse, or excessive uterine contractions. It is important to promptly address cord compression to prevent fetal distress and potential complications during labor and delivery. The other options listed may also influence fetal heart rate, but in this scenario, cord compression is the most likely cause based on the described heart rate pattern.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When baseline variability is absent in fetal monitoring, it may indicate fetal hypoxia or acidemia. The appropriate action to further evaluate the fetal condition would be to notify the physician so that a fetal scalp blood sample can be obtained. This blood sample can provide important information about the oxygenation status of the fetus, helping to guide the management and interventions needed to support the baby's well-being. Monitoring fetal oxygen saturation using fetal pulse oximetry (choice A) or performing other interventions such as applying pressure to the fetal scalp (choice D) or increasing IV fluids for the mother (choice E) would not provide as direct or specific information about the fetal condition as obtaining a blood sample would.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse in this situation is to stop the infusion of Pitocin. Late decelerations are a concerning fetal heart rate pattern that indicates uteroplacental insufficiency. Oxytocin (Pitocin) can cause hyperstimulation of the uterus, leading to poor oxygenation of the fetus and resulting in late decelerations. Stopping the Pitocin infusion can help to improve placental perfusion and oxygenation to the fetus, potentially reversing the late decelerations. It is crucial to address the fetal distress promptly to prevent further compromise and ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Other interventions, such as repositioning the patient or preparing for a cesarean birth, may also be necessary but should occur after stopping the Pitocin infusion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.