A nurse is caring for a client who is at 33 weeks of gestation following an amniocentesis.
The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications?
Epigastric pain
Hypertension
Contractions
Vomiting
The Correct Answer is C

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The correct answer is choice c. Contractions.
Choice A rationale:
Epigastric pain is not a common complication following an amniocentesis. It is more often associated with conditions like preeclampsia or gastrointestinal issues.
Choice B rationale:
Hypertension is not directly related to amniocentesis. It is more commonly associated with conditions like preeclampsia or chronic hypertension in pregnancy.
Choice C rationale:
Contractions are a significant complication to monitor for after an amniocentesis, especially at 33 weeks of gestation. The procedure can sometimes induce preterm labor.
Choice D rationale:
Vomiting is not a typical complication following an amniocentesis. It may occur due to other unrelated reasons but is not directly linked to the procedure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Obtain the specimen from the retention port. This is because the retention port is a sterile site that can be accessed by a syringe to aspirate urine without contaminating the specimen or the closed drainage system. The retention port should be cleaned with an alcohol swab before inserting the syringe. The specimen should be transferred to a sterile container and labeled appropriately.
Choice A is wrong because unclamping the collection port below the bag would allow urine to flow out of the bag, which is not sterile and may contain bacteria or sediment. Choice C is wrong because disconnecting the catheter from the collection tubing would break the closed drainage system and increase the risk of infection. Choice D is wrong because using the balloon port to obtain the sterile specimen would deflate the balloon that holds the catheter in place and cause trauma to the bladder wall.
Normal ranges for urine characteristics vary depending on the type of analysis, but some general parameters are:
- Color: pale yellow to amber
- Clarity: clear or slightly cloudy
- Odor: faint aromatic
- pH: 4.5 to 8.0
- Specific gravity: 1.005 to 1.030
- Protein: <150 mg/24 hr
- Glucose: negative
- Ketones: negative
- Blood: negative
- Nitrites: negative
- Leukocyte esterase: negative
- Bacteria: <10,000 CFU/mL
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Continuously monitor the child’s respiratory status. This is because epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition that can cause severe airway obstruction and respiratory distress in children. The nurse should monitor the child for signs of worsening breathing, such as stridor, cyanosis, restlessness, or drooling. The nurse should also be prepared to assist with intubation or tracheostomy if needed.
Choice A is wrong because assessing the child for frequent swallowing may increase the risk of vomiting and aspiration. Swallowing may also be difficult and painful for the child due to the inflammation of the epiglottis.
Choice C is wrong because suctioning the child’s oropharynx may cause more swelling and irritation of the epiglottis, or trigger a spasm that can close off the airway. The nurse should avoid any stimulation of the throat or mouth that may worsen the condition.
Choice D is wrong because administering pancreatic enzymes with meals is not relevant to epiglottitis. Pancreatic enzymes are used to treat cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. Epiglottitis is caused by a bacterial infection or an injury to the throat.
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