Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 81%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
Client in active labor receiving oxytocin with internal fetal heart monitor showing early decelerationA nurse is caring for a client who is in active labor and is receiving oxytocin via IV infusion. The nurse has applied an internal fetal heart monitor and recognizes an early deceleration of the fetal heart rate tracing. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Early decelerations are benign, caused by fetal head compression during contractions, and do not indicate distress, so continuing to monitor the client is appropriate.