A nurse in a hospital is caring for a client who is at 38 weeks of gestation and has a large amount of painless, bright red vaginal bleeding. The client is placed on a fetal monitor indicating a regular fetal heart rate of 138/min and no uterine contractions. The client's vital signs are: blood pressure 98/52 mm Hg, heart rate 118/min, respiratory rate 24/min, and temperature 36.4°C (97.6°F). Which of the following is the priority nursing action?
Initiate IV access.
Witness the signature for informed consent for surgery.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Prepare the abdominal and perineal areas.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
In the case of a client with painless, bright red vaginal bleeding at 38 weeks of gestation, the priority is to stabilize the client's condition. Initiating IV access is crucial as it allows for rapid administration of fluids or blood products to address potential hypovolemia and to prepare for the possibility of an emergency cesarean section if needed. The client's low blood pressure and elevated heart rate suggest that she may be experiencing hypovolemia, which can quickly lead to hypovolemic shock if not treated promptly.
Choice B reason:
While obtaining informed consent is important before any surgical procedure, it is not the immediate priority. The priority is to stabilize the client, and consent can be obtained concurrently with other stabilizing actions or by another member of the healthcare team.
Choice C reason:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is a supportive measure that can be necessary during labor or before surgery to keep the bladder empty, reducing the risk of bladder injury during a cesarean section and monitoring urine output as an indicator of renal perfusion. However, it is not the first priority in the presence of significant vaginal bleeding.
Choice D reason:
Preparing the abdominal and perineal areas is part of the preoperative procedure for a cesarean section. This action would follow after the client has been stabilized and a decision for surgery has been made.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["6"]
Explanation
-
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Suctioning excess mucus with a bulb syringe is a standard procedure to clear the airways of a newborn and facilitate breathing. While it is an important aspect of initial newborn care, it does not directly prevent jaundice. Jaundice is caused by high levels of bilirubin in the blood, and suctioning mucus does not influence bilirubin levels.
Choice B reason:
Initiating early feeding, whether breastfeeding or formula feeding, is recommended to prevent jaundice. Early feeding helps stimulate bowel movements, which aids in the excretion of bilirubin through the stool. Breastfed babies should be fed eight to twelve times a day during their first week of life, and formula-fed babies should receive one to two ounces (30 to 60 milliliters) of formula every two to three hours during their first week. This frequent feeding schedule helps ensure that bilirubin does not build up to high levels in the newborn's system.
Choice C reason:
Preparing for an exchange blood transfusion is a treatment measure for severe jaundice, not a preventive action. This procedure is only considered when bilirubin levels are dangerously high and could potentially cause brain damage. It is not a standard preventive measure for jaundice in newborns.
Choice D reason:
Beginning phototherapy is a treatment method for newborns who have already developed jaundice, not a preventive measure. Phototherapy uses light to break down bilirubin in the skin, making it easier for the baby's body to eliminate it. While effective in treating jaundice, it is not used as a preventive action.
Question 65
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.