A nurse at an antepartum clinic is caring for a client who is at 4 months of gestation. The client reports continued nausea, vomiting; and scant, prune-colored discharge. The client has experienced no weight loss and has a fundal height larger than expected. Which of the following complications should the nurse suspect?
Hyperemesis gravidarum
Preterm labor
Hydatidiform mole
Threatened abortion
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hyperemesis gravidarum: Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe nausea and vomiting that leads to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and weight loss. However, this client has not experienced weight loss, and the prune-colored discharge is not a sign of this condition.
B. Preterm labor: Preterm labor typically involves contractions and cervical dilation. At 4 months, preterm labor is not likely, and the prune-colored discharge and larger-than-expected fundal height are not signs of preterm labor.
C. Hydatidiform mole: A hydatidiform mole (molar pregnancy) is characterized by abnormal placental development, leading to larger-than-expected fundal height, continued nausea and vomiting, and prune-colored vaginal discharge due to bleeding from the uterus. These findings align with the client's symptoms.
D. Threatened abortion: A threatened abortion involves vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy without the expulsion of the fetus. This condition is typically associated with cramping and a smaller fundal height, which is not seen in this case.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Location of the placenta: Heavy, painless vaginal bleeding without contractions is a classic sign of placenta previa, where the placenta is abnormally positioned near or over the cervix. An ultrasound is used to determine placental location.
B. Rh incompatibility: Rh incompatibility is not associated with heavy vaginal bleeding, and ultrasound is not used to diagnose it. A blood test is required to assess Rh status.
C. Fetal lung maturity: Fetal lung maturity may be assessed in certain situations, but this is not related to the client's bleeding. The immediate concern is placental location.
D. Frequency and duration of contractions: The client has no contractions, and contractions are not the cause of heavy bleeding in this case. The priority is identifying placental issues.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Encourage the client to limit carbohydrate intake to 40% of their daily calories. For clients with gestational diabetes, dietary modifications are a critical intervention. Limiting carbohydrate intake to 40% of daily calories can help regulate blood glucose levels.
B. Instruct the client to check a random blood glucose level once daily. The client should check fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels regularly (usually multiple times per day) to manage glucose control more effectively.
C. Anticipate a prescription for metformin. Given the elevated fasting blood glucose levels and high HbA1C (12%), this client may require pharmacological management to control blood sugar levels. Metformin is a common oral hypoglycemic agent used during pregnancy when diet and lifestyle changes are insufficient.
D. Conduct a non-stress test twice per week. Clients with uncontrolled gestational diabetes or poorly controlled blood sugar levels are at increased risk of fetal complications such as macrosomia, stillbirth, and preterm labor. A non-stress test (NST) twice a week helps monitor fetal well-being and detect early signs of distress.
E. Tell the client to refrain from exercise until after delivery. Exercise is generally recommended for clients with gestational diabetes unless contraindicated. Regular physical activity can help lower blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
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