A client at 18-weeks gestation was informed this morning that she has an elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. After the healthcare provider leaves the room, the client asks what she should do next. What information should the nurse provide?
Discuss options for intrauterine surgical correction of congenital defects.
Inform her that a repeat alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) should be evaluated.
Reassure the client that the AFP results are likely to be a false reading.
Explain that a sonogram should be scheduled for definitive results
The Correct Answer is D
A. Discuss options for intrauterine surgical correction of congenital defects:At this point, the AFP result is only an indicator, not a diagnosis. The client has not undergone sufficient diagnostic evaluation (such as ultrasound) to confirm any congenital defect that would warrant intrauterine surgery. Treatment options can only be discussed once a definitive diagnosis has been made.
B. Inform her that a repeat alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) should be evaluated:While a repeat AFP test could be done in some cases to rule out lab error or confirm the result, this is not typically the immediate next step. An ultrasound provides more definitive and comprehensive information than simply repeating the AFP test.
C. Reassure the client that the AFP results are likely to be a false reading: Providing false reassurance may lead to misunderstandings. While false positives can happen, it's crucial to follow up with further assessments to ensure the accuracy of the results.
D. Explain that a sonogram should be scheduled for definitive results: An elevated AFP level is a screening test, not a definitive diagnosis. A sonogram (ultrasound) is the next step to obtain more detailed information about the fetus. Ultrasound can help assess for neural tube defects, confirm gestational age, and check for other anomalies that could explain the elevated AFP levels. This provides the most accurate and non-invasive method for evaluating potential fetal abnormalities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cries vigorously when stimulated:
Explanation: Vigorous crying is a positive sign in a newborn. It indicates that the baby is responsive, breathing effectively, and is capable of establishing the necessary air exchange.
B. A positive Babinski reflex:
Explanation: The Babinski reflex is a normal reflex in infants where the toes spread out when the sole of the foot is stimulated. While it is a normal reflex in newborns, it might not necessarily indicate the immediate transition to extrauterine life.
C. Heart rate of 220 beats/minute:
Explanation: A heart rate of 220 beats per minute in a newborn is higher than the normal range. It could be a sign of tachycardia, and this finding might require further evaluation by healthcare providers.
D. Flexion of all four extremities:
Explanation: Flexion of extremities is a normal response in a newborn, but it might not specifically indicate successful transition. It's a common response seen in healthy newborns.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Place client in a negative pressure room:HIV is not an airborne disease, and clients with HIV do not require isolation in a negative pressure room. Standard precautions are sufficient to prevent transmission.
B. Implement droplet precautions:HIV is not transmitted via droplets. It is transmitted through contact with blood, certain body fluids, or perinatal exposure. Droplet precautions are not indicated.
C. Encourage the mother to bottle-feed: HIV can be transmitted through breast milk. To prevent vertical transmission postpartum, mothers with HIV are advised to avoid breastfeeding and to use formula or bottle-feed instead.
D. Give antiviral medication intravenously: Intrapartum IV zidovudine should be administered in the following situations: (a) HIV RNA >1,000 copies/mL, (b) unknown HIV RNA, (c) known or suspected lack of adherence since the last HIV RNA result, or (d) a positive expedited antigen/antibody HIV test result during labor (AI).
E. Use standard precautions:Standard precautions are the appropriate infection control measures for caring for clients with HIV. This includes wearing gloves, practicing proper hand hygiene, and avoiding contact with the client's blood and other potentially infectious fluids.
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