A nurse is caring for a client who is at 18 weeks of gestation. The client tells the nurse that she felt fluttering movements in her abdomen 3 days ago. The nurse should interpret this finding as which of the following?
Quickening
Ballottement
Chloasma
Lightening
The Correct Answer is A
A) Quickening: Quickening is the term used to describe the first perception of fetal movements by the pregnant woman. It typically occurs between 16 to 20 weeks of gestation, which aligns with the client's statement about feeling fluttering movements at 18 weeks.
B) Ballottement: Ballottement is a physical examination technique performed by a healthcare provider to assess the fetus's position in the uterus. It is not related to the client's perception of fetal movement.
C) Chloasma: Chloasma refers to hyperpigmented skin areas that can appear during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It is not related to fetal movement.
D) Lightening: Lightening refers to the descent of the fetal head into the maternal pelvis, which typically occurs in the third trimester. It is not related to the feeling of fetal movements by the mother.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: Pain above the umbilicus may be associated with various conditions during pregnancy, but it is not a definitive sign of labor.
Choice B: The presence of amniotic fluid in the vaginal vault (rupture of membranes or "water breaking") can be a sign of labor, but it is not the most specific indicator.
Choice C: Brownish vaginal discharge may indicate the passage of old blood or "bloody show," which can be a sign of impending labor. However, it is not as reliable as cervical dilation.
Choice D: Cervical dilation is one of the most definitive signs of labor. As the cervix opens and thins (effaces), it allows for the baby's passage through the birth canal. Cervical dilation is an essential indicator of active labor.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: While an upright position is generally beneficial during labor to improve uterine contractions and fetal positioning, it is not the priority in this situation of hypotension.
Choice B: Preparing for a cesarean birth is not indicated solely based on the blood pressure reading. Cesarean birth should be considered based on the overall assessment and clinical condition of the client and baby.
Choice C: The client's blood pressure reading of 82/52 mm Hg indicates hypotension. In this situation, the nurse should assist the client in turning onto her side to relieve pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the placenta and the baby. Lying supine can compress the vena cava, leading to decreased venous return and reduced cardiac output, which may negatively affect fetal oxygenation and maternal wellbeing.
Choice D: Preparing for an immediate vaginal delivery is not the priority at this moment. The nurse should first address the hypotension and improve maternal blood flow before proceeding with delivery.
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