The nurse is monitoring her patient during labor and is aware that the only way to determine the objective measurement of uterine contractions is through the use of which modality?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: IUPC (Intrauterine Pressure Catheter). This modality is the only direct and objective measurement of uterine contractions as it provides continuous and precise readings of intrauterine pressure. A: Tocodynamometer measures frequency and duration, but not intensity. B: Fetal spiral electrode monitors fetal heart rate, not uterine contractions. D: Palpation is subjective and not as accurate as IUPC for measuring uterine contractions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Continue to monitor the patient. Early decelerations are benign and occur due to head compression during contractions. They are a normal response to fetal head compression and do not require any intervention as they are self-limiting. Continuing to monitor the patient allows the nurse to observe the pattern of decelerations and ensure they remain early and resolve on their own. Anticipating a cesarean birth (choice A) is unnecessary as early decelerations do not indicate fetal distress. Turning the patient onto the left side (choice B) is typically done for late decelerations, not early decelerations. Notifying the physician or nurse midwife immediately (choice D) is not necessary for early decelerations as they are expected and do not require immediate intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Give magnesium sulfate to inhibit uterine contractions. Magnesium sulfate is used to delay preterm labor by relaxing the uterine muscles, thus decreasing contractions. This intervention helps to delay delivery and give time for other interventions to be implemented, such as administering corticosteroids to promote fetal lung development. Providing an epidural for pain management (B) does not address the issue of preterm labor. Beginning oxytocin infusion (D) would speed up labor, which is not appropriate in this scenario. Administering corticosteroids (A) is a beneficial intervention but should be done after delaying delivery with magnesium sulfate.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prepare for an emergency cesarean section. Uterine rupture during labor is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention to prevent catastrophic outcomes for both the mother and the baby. A cesarean section is the most effective and timely intervention to address the uterine rupture and ensure the safety of both individuals. Administering pain relief medication (A) may be necessary but is not the most urgent intervention. Administering oxygen to the mother (C) can help with oxygenation, but it does not address the underlying issue of uterine rupture. Increasing IV fluid rate (D) may be helpful in some situations but is not the primary intervention needed to manage uterine rupture.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it addresses the potential causes of late decelerations comprehensively. Stopping Pitocin helps to eliminate uteroplacental insufficiency, administering oxygen improves fetal oxygenation, and changing the patient's position can alleviate pressure on the umbilical cord. Each intervention targets a different aspect contributing to late decelerations, making it crucial to implement all of them to optimize fetal well-being.