A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is using pattern-paced breathing during the first stage of labor. The client says she feels lightheaded, and her fingers are tingling. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

The Apgar s core is a s coring s ys tem doctors and nurs es us e to as s es s newborns after they’re born. The Apgar s coring s ys tem is divided into five categories : Activity, Puls e, Grimace, Appearance, and Res piration. Each category receives a s core of 0 to 2 points 1.

Bas ed on the information you provided, the newborn’s 1-min Apgar s core would be calculated as follows :

• Activity: s ome flexion of extremities = 1 point

• Puls e: heart rate 110/ min = 2 points

• Grimace: grimace in res pons e to s uctioning of the nares = 1 point

• Appearance: body pink in color with blue extremities = 1 point

• Res piration: s low, weak cry = 1 point

Adding up the points for each category, the newborn’s 1-min Apgar s core would be 6.

Choice C rationale:

This response is correct because black stools are a common side effect of taking iron supplements. Iron can cause the stool to appear black or

tarry due to the way it is broken down during digestion. It does not necessarily indicate a serious issue, especially if the client is not experiencing any abdominal pain or cramping. Educating the client about this expected side effect helps alleviate any concerns they might have about the change in stool colour.

Choice A rationale:

"Go to the emergency room and your provider will meet you there.”. This response is not appropriate in this situation. The client's report of black stools without abdominal pain or cramping is likely due to the iron supplements and does not warrant a visit to the emergency room. This response may cause unnecessary panic and anxiety for the client.

Choice B rationale:

"What else have you been eating?.”. This response is also not the best choice. While it's essential for healthcare providers to gather comprehensive information about a client's diet and lifestyle, in this case, the client's black stools can be directly attributed to the iron supplements. Focusing on other dietary factors might distract from addressing the client's concern about the side effect of iron supplementation.

Choice D rationale:

"Come to the office, and we will check things out.”. This response is not the most appropriate one either. A visit to the office might not be necessary solely based on the client's report of black stools without accompanying pain or cramping. This situation can be managed through education, and the client can be reassured that it is a typical side effect of iron supplements. An unnecessary visit to the office could inconvenience the client and waste both their time and the healthcare provider's time.