A nurse is caring for a client following a vacuum-assisted birth. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications related to vacuum-assisted birth?

A. Assess peripheral circulation hourly. This is correct because clients with SCD are at risk of vaso-occlusive crisis, which can impair blood flow to the extremities and cause tissue ischemia and necrosis. The nurse should monitor for signs of poor circulation such as pallor, coolness, numbness, or pain.

B. Assess the client's mouth every 8 hr. This is correct because clients with SCD are prone to oral ulcers, infections, and dental problems due to chronic anemia and reduced oxygen delivery to the oral mucosa. The nurse should inspect the mouth for lesions, bleeding, inflammation, or infection and provide oral hygiene as needed.

C. Use humidification with oxygen therapy. Administer IV fluids. This is correct because clients with SCD need adequate hydration and oxygenation to prevent sickling of red blood cells and further complications. Humidification helps moisten the airways and prevent dehydration of the mucous membranes. IV fluids help maintain fluid and electrolyte balance and reduce blood viscosity.

D. Raise the knee position on the client's bed. This is incorrect because this can impede venous return and worsen peripheral circulation. The nurse should keep the client's extremities in a neutral position and avoid tight or restrictive clothing or devices.

E. Use an automated blood pressure cuff on the client's arm. Prepare for platelet transfusion. This is incorrect because this can cause mechanical trauma to the arm and trigger a vasoocclusive crisis. The nurse should use a manual blood pressure cuff and avoid applying pressure to the arm. Platelet transfusion is not indicated for clients with SCD unless they have thrombocytopenia or bleeding.

Choice A rationale:

Instructing the client to "Lie down for 30 min after meals" is an inappropriate recommendation for managing heartburn during pregnancy. Lying down after meals allows stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, worseningheartburn symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

Eating a high-fat snack at bedtime is not advisable for managing heartburn. Fatty foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and worsen heartburn symptoms. Avoiding high-fat snacks close to bedtime is a more appropriate recommendation.

Choice C rationale:

Sipping carbonated beverages throughout the day can exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Carbonated beverages, including sodas and sparkling water, can increase stomach acid and contribute to heartburn. Therefore, advising the client to avoid carbonated beverages is more appropriate for managing heartburn during pregnancy.

Choice D rationale:

Drinking hot herbal tea alleviates the heartburn symptoms and is recommended in pregnancy.