What action should a nurse take if fetal heart rate tracings are categorized as Cat 2 or Cat 3?

When fetal heart rate tracings are categorized as Category 2 or Category 3, they indicate concerning changes in fetal well-being that require immediate intervention. Category 2 tracings may signal more subtle signs of abnormality that need to be monitored closely, while Category 3 typically indicates a lack of adequate fetal oxygenation, requiring prompt action.

Administering terbutaline, a tocolytic agent, can help to relax the uterus and improve blood flow to the fetus, potentially alleviating intrauterine stress that could be causing compromised fetal heart tracings. It is particularly effective in situations where uterine tone is contributing to fetal distress, thereby improving fetal heart rate patterns.

In contrast, continuing an oxytocin infusion might exacerbate already concerning fetal heart rate patterns by increasing uterine contractions and potentially decreasing blood flow to the fetus. Increasing fluid intake may help with hydration but does not specifically address the fetal heart rate issues present. Monitoring fetal movement is essential for ongoing assessment but would not be a priority action in response to abnormal heart rate patterns that indicate immediate concern. Thus, the appropriate and immediate response in such cases is the administration of terbutaline.