A client at 20 weeks gestation reports discomfort after amniocentesis procedure to the nurse. Which of the following assessment findings warrants priority action by the nurse?
Braxton Hicks contraction
Amniotic fluid contains fetal urine
Prolonged vaginal bleeding
Lab results reveal abnormal chromosome cells
The Correct Answer is C
Explanation:
A. Braxton Hicks contraction
Braxton Hicks contractions are often referred to as "practice" contractions and are common during pregnancy. They are typically irregular and do not cause cervical changes. While discomfort after an amniocentesis procedure can sometimes trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, they are not usually a cause for immediate concern unless they become frequent, intense, or are accompanied by other signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, lower back pain, pelvic pressure, or changes in vaginal discharge.
B. Amniotic fluid contains fetal urine
The presence of fetal urine in the amniotic fluid is a normal and expected process during pregnancy. Fetal urine production contributes to the volume and composition of amniotic fluid, helping maintain the environment in the uterus and supporting fetal development. This finding is not directly related to the client's discomfort after an amniocentesis procedure and is not a cause for immediate concern unless there are other complications or abnormalities related to the amniotic fluid composition.
C. Prolonged vaginal bleeding
Prolonged vaginal bleeding after an amniocentesis procedure is a significant finding that requires immediate attention. While some spotting or mild bleeding can occur after the procedure, prolonged or significant bleeding may indicate complications such as uterine injury, placental abruption, or other issues that need urgent assessment and intervention by healthcare providers.
D. Lab results reveal abnormal chromosome cells
Abnormal chromosome cells found in the amniotic fluid sample obtained during amniocentesis may indicate genetic abnormalities or conditions in the fetus. While this finding is significant and requires follow-up and further evaluation, it is not an immediate concern in terms of the client's discomfort or the need for priority action by the nurse unless it is associated with other urgent clinical signs or symptoms.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Explanation:
A. The biparietal diameter
The biparietal diameter is a measurement of the fetal head's diameter, which is often assessed during routine prenatal ultrasounds to estimate gestational age and monitor fetal growth. However, in the scenario described, the client is experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding without contractions at 38 weeks of gestation. The focus is on the immediate concern of the fetus's well-being rather than assessing specific fetal measurements like the biparietal diameter.
B. Viability of the fetus
This choice is correct for the scenario described. Viability refers to the ability of the fetus to survive outside the uterus. Heavy vaginal bleeding near term raises concerns about potential harm to the fetus and its viability. An ultrasound would be performed to assess the fetal heart rate, movement, and overall condition to determine if the fetus is viable or if there are any immediate concerns that need to be addressed.
C. Fetal lung maturity
Fetal lung maturity is typically assessed closer to the end of pregnancy, usually around 36 to 39 weeks of gestation, to determine if the fetus's lungs are developed enough for birth. While important for planning deliveries, assessing fetal lung maturity is not the primary concern in a situation where the client is experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding without contractions at 38 weeks of gestation.
D. Location of the placenta
The location of the placenta is important for monitoring placental health and assessing potential complications such as placenta previa. However, in the context of heavy vaginal bleeding without contractions at 38 weeks of gestation, the immediate concern is the well-being and viability of the fetus rather than the placental location.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Explanation:
A. Placenta previa: Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. Painless, bright red vaginal bleeding is a common symptom of placenta previa, especially in the third trimester. This bleeding occurs because the placental blood vessels are disrupted as the cervix begins to dilate or efface during pregnancy.
B. Abruptio placentae: Abruptio placentae is a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely, leading to painful bleeding. However, the bleeding associated with abruptio placentae is typically dark red and accompanied by uterine pain or contractions. In the scenario described, the bleeding is painless, making abruptio placentae less likely.
C. Threatened abortion: Threatened abortion refers to vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy (before 20 weeks) that may or may not be accompanied by cramping or abdominal pain. It is not typically associated with painless, bright red bleeding at 36 weeks gestation.
D. Precipitous labor: Precipitous labor refers to a rapid labor and delivery process, often completing in less than three hours from onset of contractions to delivery. It is not related to painless, bright red vaginal bleeding.
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