A client at 28 weeks gestation is in preterm labor and it is not expected that the fetus will survive after delivery. What should be the nurse’s initial action?

Choice A rationale

While it’s true that AFP results can sometimes be false readings, it’s not the most appropriate advice for the nurse to give in this situation. Simply reassuring the client without suggesting further investigation could potentially overlook a serious condition.

Choice B rationale

Discussing options for intrauterine surgical correction of congenital defects at this stage is premature. The elevated AFP level alone does not confirm the presence of congenital defects, and suggesting surgical intervention may cause unnecessary anxiety.

Choice C rationale

Informing the client that a repeat AFP test should be conducted is a reasonable suggestion. However, it’s not the most appropriate next step in this case. A repeat test would provide more information, but it wouldn’t give definitive results about the cause of the elevated AFP level.

Choice D rationale

Explaining that a sonogram should be scheduled for definitive results is the most appropriate advice. An ultrasound can provide a more detailed view of the fetus and help identify any potential issues that might have led to the elevated AFP level. This would be the most informative next step and would guide further actions based on the findings.

Choice A rationale

Abruptio placenta is a condition where the placenta prematurely separates from the uterus. It typically presents with symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, back pain, and frequent contractions. However, the symptoms described by the client do not align with this condition.

Choice B rationale

Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the fetus and is associated with prolonged labor. Symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, and fetal tachycardia. The client’s symptoms of pain when the baby moves, a high temperature, and severe abdominal or uterine tenderness on palpation align with this condition.

Choice C rationale

Round ligament strain is a common cause of pain during pregnancy, particularly in the second trimester. It is caused by the stretching of the round ligaments that support the uterus.

However, it does not cause fever or severe abdominal tenderness.

Choice D rationale

While a viral infection could potentially cause a fever, it would not typically cause severe abdominal or uterine tenderness specifically when the baby moves.