A nurse is assessing a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and reports sudden, severe abdominal pain with moderate vaginal bleeding and persistent uterine contractions.
The client's blood pressure is 88/50 mm Hg, and her abdomen is rigid.
The nurse should identify these findings as indicating which of the following complications?

Uterine rupture.

Placental abruption.

Placenta previa.

Amniotic fluid embolus.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:

Uterine rupture typically presents with intense, constant abdominal pain and signs of shock. However, the absence of visible bleeding in the abdominal cavity makes this choice less likely in this case.

Choice B rationale:

Placental abruption involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery. The sudden, severe abdominal pain, moderate vaginal bleeding, persistent uterine contractions, and signs of hypovolemic shock (low blood pressure, rigid abdomen) are indicative of placental abruption. This condition requires immediate medical intervention due to the risk of fetal and maternal compromise.

Choice C rationale:

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening. It typically presents with painless, bright red vaginal bleeding. The severe abdominal pain described in the scenario is inconsistent with placenta previa.

Choice D rationale:

Amniotic fluid embolus is a rare and life-threatening condition in which amniotic fluid enters the maternal bloodstream, causing an allergic reaction. It can lead to sudden cardiovascular collapse. Although it can cause respiratory distress and hypotension, it does not usually present with severe abdominal pain or uterine contractions.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice B rationale:

Instructing the client to gently stroke her lower abdomen is the appropriate action in this situation. Gentle stroking or tapping on the lower abdomen can stimulate the bladder reflex and promote urination. This technique can help clients who have difficulty voiding, especially when using a bedpan. It encourages relaxation of the pelvic muscles, making it easier for the client to urinate.

Choice A rationale:

Turning on the faucets in the client's sink is not a recommended action for promoting urination. While the sound of running water can sometimes trigger the need to urinate, it may not be effective for every individual. Moreover, this action may not be practical or feasible in all healthcare settings.

Choice C rationale:

Instructing the client to lean slightly backward is not an appropriate action for promoting urination. Leaning backward can put pressure on the bladder, which may make it more challenging for the client to urinate. Encouraging relaxation and using techniques like gentle abdominal stroking are more effective in this situation.

Choice D rationale:

Pouring cool water over the client's perineum is not a recommended action for promoting urination. While some individuals find warm water soothing and relaxing, pouring cold water may cause discomfort and stress, making it even more difficult for the client to urinate. Gentle stimulation and relaxation techniques are generally more effective.

A. Hemoglobin 14.9 g/dL B. WBC count 12.000/mm C. Potassium 48 mEq D. BUN 18 mg/dL

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Correct. A hemoglobin level of 14.9 g/dL indicates that the client has an adequate amount of oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, which is the goal of blood transfusion therapy.
B. Incorrect. A WBC count of 12,000/mm3 is slightly elevated and may indicate an infection or inflammation, which are not related to blood transfusion therapy.
C. Incorrect. A potassium level of 48 mEq/L is dangerously high and may cause cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, or paralysis. This is not an expected outcome of blood transfusion therapy and may indicate hemolysis or renal impairment.
D. Incorrect. A BUN level of 18 mg/dL is within the normal range and does not reflect the effectiveness of blood transfusion therapy.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a female client who requires bed rest and reports difficulty urinating into a bedpan.Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who received 2 units of packed RBCs 48 hr ago. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the therapy has been effective?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is providing education to the parent of a school-age child who has asthma. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A nurse in an emergency department is assessing a school-age child who was brought in by their parents and has scald burns to both hands and wrists. The nurse suspects physical abuse. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A nurse is teaching about safe handling of formula to a client who is postpartum and chooses to bottle feed her newborn.Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A nurse is providing teaching about advance directives to a middle adult client. Which of the following client responses indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A nurse is caring for a client who has immunosuppression and a continuous IV infusion. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

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