A client who is HIV-positive is in her second trimester and remains asymptomatic. She voices concern about her newborn's risk for the infection. Which statement by the nurse would be most appropriate?
"You'll probably have a cesarean birth to prevent exposing your newborn."
"Antiretroviral medications are available to help reduce the risk of transmission."
"Wait until after the infant is born, and then something can be done."
"Antibodies cross the placenta and provide immunity to the newborn."
The Correct Answer is B
A. "You'll probably have a cesarean birth to prevent exposing your newborn."
This statement suggests a specific intervention without addressing the broader context of HIV management during pregnancy. While a cesarean birth may be recommended in certain cases to reduce the risk of vertical transmission of HIV, it is not the only or primary measure taken. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is typically the mainstay of treatment during pregnancy to suppress viral load and reduce transmission risk.
B. "Antiretroviral medications are available to help reduce the risk of transmission."
This response provides accurate information about the use of antiretroviral medications during pregnancy to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. ART is a critical component of HIV management in pregnant women and has been shown to significantly decrease the risk of vertical transmission when used appropriately.
C. "Wait until after the infant is born, and then something can be done."
This statement is not appropriate because it suggests delaying action until after the infant is born, which may increase the risk of HIV transmission during childbirth. Prompt initiation of antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy is essential to maximize the chances of preventing vertical transmission.
D. "Antibodies cross the placenta and provide immunity to the newborn."
While it is true that antibodies can cross the placenta and provide passive immunity to the newborn for certain infections, including some viral illnesses, this statement is not directly relevant to preventing HIV transmission from an HIV-positive mother to her newborn. Unlike some infections where maternal antibodies can confer protection to the infant, HIV transmission is not prevented solely by passive immunity. Instead, active measures such as antiretroviral therapy are necessary to reduce transmission risk.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Candidiasis:
Candidiasis is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans in the vagina. It typically presents with symptoms such as thick, white vaginal discharge (resembling cottage cheese), itching, and discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). This option is the most likely diagnosis based on the client's symptoms.
B. Genital herpes simplex:
Genital herpes simplex is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It presents with symptoms such as painful, fluid-filled blisters or sores in the genital area. While genital herpes can cause vaginal discharge, the discharge is typically clear or cloudy, not thick and white as described in the scenario.
C. Trichomoniasis:
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It commonly presents with symptoms such as a frothy, yellow-green vaginal discharge, itching, and discomfort during urination or sexual intercourse. The discharge is typically not described as thick and white.
D. Bacterial vaginosis:
Bacterial vaginosis results from an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, with a decrease in beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. It presents with symptoms such as a thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge with a fishy odor. While bacterial vaginosis can cause vaginal discomfort, the discharge is not typically described as thick and white.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Oligohydramnios:
Oligohydramnios refers to a condition where there is too little amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus in the womb. It can be concerning because amniotic fluid plays a crucial role in protecting and cushioning the fetus, aiding in lung development, and preventing compression of the umbilical cord. While oligohydramnios can be a complication in pregnancy, it's not necessarily more common or specific to twin pregnancies compared to singleton pregnancies.
B. Preeclampsia:
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, such as the liver and kidneys. It usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the babies if not managed properly. Multiple pregnancies, including twins, are considered a risk factor for developing preeclampsia. Therefore, pregnant women carrying twins require close monitoring for signs and symptoms of preeclampsia.
C. Chorioamnionitis:
Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the fetal membranes (chorion and amnion) and amniotic fluid. It typically occurs due to bacterial infection ascending from the vagina into the uterus, often during prolonged labor or rupture of membranes. While chorioamnionitis is a concern in pregnancy, it's not necessarily more common in twin pregnancies compared to singleton pregnancies.
D. Post-term labor:
Post-term labor refers to labor that begins after 42 weeks of gestation. Prolonged pregnancy beyond the due date can increase the risks of complications for both the mother and the baby, including fetal distress, macrosomia (large birth weight), and meconium aspiration. Post-term labor can occur in both singleton and multiple pregnancies, but it's not specifically more associated with twin pregnancies.
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