A nurse is caring for a 28-year-old female client in the emergency department. The client is experiencing symptoms suggesting the risk of preterm birth.

Exhibits

Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.

The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to fetal fibronectin:

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and

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.

Choice A rationale

Delay in initiating breastfeeding can occur after a cesarean birth due to the effects of anesthesia, postoperative recovery, and the need for medical monitoring, which can delay the mother’s ability to start breastfeeding.

Choice B rationale

Routine use of intubation equipment is not standard practice during a cesarean birth. Intubation is typically reserved for patients who require general anesthesia or have complications that necessitate airway management.

Choice C rationale

The need for an indwelling urinary catheter is common during a cesarean birth. It helps to keep the bladder empty and out of the way during the procedure and is usually placed after anesthesia and removed shortly after the surgery.

Choice D rationale

Management of postpartum pain is an important topic to discuss with clients undergoing cesarean birth. Postoperative pain management may include medications and non-pharmacological methods to ensure comfort and aid in recovery.

The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to:

Response 1: B) being higher than normal (fetal fibronectin: 0.09 mcg/mL is higher than the normal level of ≤ 0.05 mcg/mL).

Response 2: B) Nitrazine and ferning tests negative

Here's the

• Fetal Fibronectin: Fetal fibronectin is a protein found between the amniotic sac and the uterine lining. Levels greater than 0.05 mcg/mL (like 0.09 mcg/mL) indicate an increased risk of preterm labor.
• Nitrazine and Ferning Tests: Both tests being negative indicates that there is no rupture of membranes. Even though these tests are negative, the elevated fetal fibronectin level still indicates a risk for preterm birth.

So the completed sentence would be: The nurse should identify that the client is at the greatest risk for preterm birth due to fetal fibronectin being higher than normal and Nitrazine and ferning tests negative.

This combination of findings suggests that preterm labor may be imminent despite the lack of membrane rupture. The elevated fetal fibronectin is a strong indicator of risk.