ATI Maternity Proctored Exam
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ATI Maternity Proctored Exam
The clinic nurse is measuring the uterine fundal height of a client at 36 weeks gestation lying in a supine position. The client suddenly reports dizziness, and the nurse observes pallor and damp, cool skin. What should the nurse do first?
Explanation
Choice A rationaleEvaluating the fetal heart rate does not address maternal symptoms of supine hypotensive syndrome. Moving the client first corrects the underlying issue. Fetal evaluation can follow once maternal circulation improves, ensuring both are assessed.Choice B rationaleChecking recent food and fluid intake does not immediately address the likely cause of supine hypotensive syndrome. Correcting maternal positioning is urgent to improve venous return and prevent adverse effects, then other assessments can follow.Choice C rationaleMeasuring blood pressure and pulse can confirm hypotension but does not address its cause. Immediate repositioning to lateral position alleviates the compression on the inferior vena cava, improving blood flow before measuring vitals.Choice D rationaleTurning to a lateral position relieves the vena cava from compression by the gravid uterus, reducing symptoms of supine hypotensive syndrome. This action improves venous return, stabilizing maternal hemodynamics and alleviating dizziness and pallor.