A patient has meconium-stained amniotic fluid. Fetal scalp sampling indicates a blood pH of 7.12 and fetal bradycardia is present. Based on these findings, the nurse should take which action?

Explanation

• Infants with meconium-stained amniotic fluid may have respiratory difficulties and bradycardia at birth.

• Based on the assessment, fetal metabolic acidosis is present. These findings pose a great threat to the newborn’s well-being. A cesarean section is required.

• Incorrect: Amnioinfusion is an infusion of sterile isotonic solution into the uterine cavity during labor to reduce umbilical cord compression. This is also done to dilute meconium in the amniotic fluid, reducing the risk that the infant will aspirate thick meconium at birth. This procedure is not sufficient in this scenario.

•Incorrect: Starting an IV and repositioning the patient are not sufficient.

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