An 18-year-old nulliparous patient at 38 weeks gestation is evaluated on the labor and delivery unit. She was admitted in active labor, and artificial rupture of membranes was performed two hours ago. Her temperature is 37.0°C (98.6°F) and blood pressure is 110/70 mmHg. Cervical examination shows 7 cm dilation, 100% effacement, and the fetal vertex at +1 station. The external fetal monitor shows a baseline heart rate of 145/min with moderate variability. During the monitoring period, the fetal heart rate frequently exhibits abrupt decreases to 85/min. These decreases reach their nadir within 15 seconds of onset, last for roughly 45 seconds, and rapidly return to the baseline of 145/min. These episodes occur during the majority of her uterine contractions. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in management?
- AAmnioinfusion
- BCesarean delivery
- Maternal repositioningCevap
- DIntravenous oxytocin
- ESubcutaneous terbutaline