Maternity Nursing Q 47

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After 4 hours of active labor, the nurse notes that the contractions of a primigravida client are not strong enough to dilate the cervix. Which of the following would the nurse anticipate doing?

  

     A. Obtaining an order to begin IV oxytocin infusion.

     B. Administering a light sedative to allow the patient to rest for several hours

     C. Preparing for a cesarean section for failure to progress

    Incorrect

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Obtaining an order to begin IV oxytocin infusion.

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The client’s labor is hypotonic. The nurse should call the physical and obtain an order for an infusion of oxytocin, which will assist the uterus to contract more forcefully in an attempt to dilate the cervix.

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Option B: Administering a light sedative would be done for hypertonic uterine contractions.

Option C: Preparing for a cesarean section is unnecessary at this time.

Option D: Oxytocin would increase the uterine contractions and hopefully progress labor before a cesarean would be necessary. It is too early to anticipate client pushing with contractions.

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