During labour, a woman becomes hypotensive after regional analgesia, and the fetal heart rate falls suddenly. What should the nurse do first?
Correct answer: A. Turn her to the left lateral position and call for urgent review
- A. Turn her to the left lateral position and call for urgent review
- B. Place her flat on her back and increase the analgesic dose
- C. Ask her to push strongly during the next contraction
- D. Offer oral fluids and continue routine fetal monitoring
Explanation
Maternal hypotension can reduce uteroplacental perfusion and cause fetal bradycardia. Left lateral positioning reduces vena cava compression while urgent review and treatment of the hypotension are arranged. A supine position may worsen venous obstruction and oral fluids are too slow for this emergency.
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About Obstetric Emergencies
Acute threats to the mother or fetus include postpartum haemorrhage, eclampsia, shock, cord prolapse, shoulder dystocia, uterine rupture, amniotic fluid embolism and fetal distress. The subject covers rapid assessment, airway and circulation support, emergency medicines, positioning, preparation for assisted or operative birth, and coordinated referral.
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