Question

A client in active labor is sweating profusely and has minimal urine output. Which of the following is how the nurse should intervene?

a. Offer the client ice chips and ask the charge nurse to notify the physician of the low urine output
b. Administer a diuretic to increase urine production
c. Encourage the client to rest and take deep breaths
d. Restrict fluid intake to prevent further sweating

Answer 1

A client in active labor, sweating and with low urine output, should be given ice chips and the situation should be reported to a physician to address potential dehydration and other complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate intervention for a client in active labor who is sweating profusely with minimal urine output is to offer the client ice chips and alert the physician about the low urine output. During labor, it's important to maintain hydration due to the increased physical exertion and potential for fluid loss through sweating. Minimal urine output could indicate dehydration or other complications that might require medical intervention. Administering a diuretic in this case is contraindicated because it would lead to further dehydration and is not appropriate for treating oliguria caused by labor. It is imperative to monitor electrolyte balance in this situation, as abnormally high or low levels of electrolytes can lead to disorders. Also, aldosterone and ADH play important roles in managing the body's water level, which can be perturbed during labor.