Final answer:
Late deceleration of the fetal heart rate (FHR) can be addressed through nurse interventions such as oxygenation, repositioning on the left side, increasing IV fluid, discontinuing oxytocin, and reporting to the doctor.
Step-by-step explanation:
Late deceleration of the fetal heart rate (FHR) occurs when there is a decrease in the FHR that coincides with or follows a uterine contraction. As a nurse, there are several interventions that can be implemented to address late decelerations:
- Oxygenation: Administering oxygen to the mother can help increase oxygen supply to the fetus. This can be done by providing the mother with supplemental oxygen via a mask or nasal cannula.
- Reposition on left side: Placing the mother in a left lateral position can improve blood flow to the placenta and fetus by reducing compression on the vena cava.
- IV fluid increase: Increasing the mother's IV fluid intake can enhance blood volume and improve placental perfusion.
- Discontinue oxytocin: If the mother is receiving oxytocin, discontinuing its administration may help alleviate late decelerations.
- Report to doctor: It is important for the nurse to promptly notify the doctor or healthcare provider about the occurrence of late decelerations so that further evaluation and management can be initiated if necessary.