A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with preeclampsia and is being treated with magnesium sulfate IV. The client's respiratory rate is 10/min and deep-tendon reflexes are absent. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Explanation:

A. "Don't worry. You will be fine once the baby is born."

This response may inadvertently dismiss the client's feelings of doubt and uncertainty. It assumes that the client's concerns will automatically resolve after childbirth, which may not be the case for everyone. It lacks acknowledgment of the client's current emotional state and does not offer meaningful support or guidance.

B. "Ambivalent feelings are quite common for women early in pregnancy."

This response acknowledges the client's feelings of doubt and uncertainty as valid and common experiences during early pregnancy. It normalizes her emotions, letting her know that she is not alone in feeling this way. By providing this validation, the nurse creates a supportive environment where the client can feel understood and accepted.

C. "Perhaps you should see a counselor to discuss these feelings further."

Suggesting counseling is a proactive and supportive approach. It recognizes that the client's emotions are complex and may benefit from professional guidance. Counseling offers a safe space for the client to explore her feelings, understand their root causes, and develop coping strategies. It demonstrates the nurse's commitment to the client's emotional well-being and encourages seeking help when needed.

D. "Have you spoken to your mother about these feelings?"

While seeking support from family members can be valuable, this response may not fully address the client's emotional needs. It assumes that talking to her mother will automatically resolve her concerns, which may not always be the case. Additionally, some clients may prefer discussing sensitive issues with a neutral third party or a trained counselor who can offer unbiased support and guidance.

Explanation:

A. "You will need to double your intake of iron during pregnancy."

This statement is not accurate. While iron needs do increase during pregnancy to support the increased blood volume and fetal development, the recommended increase is not necessarily a doubling of intake. Specific iron requirements can vary based on individual factors, such as pre-pregnancy iron status and maternal health conditions.

B. "Prenatal vitamins will meet your need for increased vitamin D during pregnancy."

Prenatal vitamins typically contain some vitamin D, but they may not meet the increased need for vitamin D during pregnancy entirely, especially if the client has limited sun exposure or other risk factors for vitamin D deficiency. Additional sources of vitamin D, such as sunlight exposure and dietary sources, may be recommended.

C. "You will need to increase your calcium intake during breastfeeding."

This statement is correct. During breastfeeding, calcium requirements increase to support milk production and the maintenance of maternal bone health. Adequate calcium intake is important for both the mother and the growing infant.

D. "Vitamin E requirements decline during pregnancy due to the increase in body fat."

This statement is not accurate. Vitamin E requirements do not necessarily decline during pregnancy because of an increase in body fat. Vitamin E is still essential during pregnancy for its antioxidant properties and role in fetal development.