A laboring client receiving oxytocin has 6 contractions in 1… | MyMerci
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Medication Administration PPT
Question

A laboring client receiving oxytocin has 6 contractions in 10 minutes averaged over 30 minutes and recurrent late decelerations. Maternal oxygen saturation is 98%. Which action should the nurse take first?

Explanation
Uterine tachysystole with recurrent late decelerations requires immediate discontinuation of oxytocin and intrauterine resuscitative measures such as lateral repositioning, prompt notification, and protocol-directed treatment. Routine oxygen is not recommended when maternal oxygen saturation is normal.
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In-depth explanation

Quick answer
Stop oxytocin first, reposition, and escalate.

Why this is correct
Six contractions in 10 minutes averaged over 30 minutes meet the definition of tachysystole. Recurrent late decelerations show fetal intolerance, so the uterotonic stimulus must be removed immediately and the team should begin protocol-directed resuscitation.

Easy analogy or mental picture
Oxytocin is pressing the contraction accelerator; release it before adding another intervention.

Memory hook
Too many contractions plus late decels: stop the drip.

NCLEX decision rule
Remove the iatrogenic cause first. Reposition, reassess, notify, and use additional measures such as IV fluid or a rapid-acting uterine relaxant according to the clinical protocol and orders.

Why the other choices are wrong
Increasing or continuing oxytocin worsens tachysystole; routine oxygen is not indicated solely for a tracing when maternal saturation is normal.
References
1DailyMed: Oxytocin injectionImmediate discontinuation for uterine hyperactivity or fetal distress
2ACOG practice advisory mirrorNo routine oxygen when maternal oxygen saturation is normal
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For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.