Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving oxytocin via continuous IV infusion and is experiencing persistent late decelerations in the FHR. After discontinuing the infusion, which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Administer oxygen at 10 L/min via nonrebreather facemask. Late decelerations in fetal heart rate (FHR) indicate uteroplacental insufficiency, possibly due to decreased oxygen supply to the fetus. Providing oxygen to the mother increases oxygen delivery to the fetus, improving oxygenation and potentially reversing the late decelerations. Other choices are incorrect: A could increase intra-abdominal pressure, worsening late decelerations. C can decrease placental perfusion. D is not indicated for late decelerations.