A nurse is caring for a client who is at 36 weeks of gestation.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority to assess further?
Increased leukorrhea.
Urinary frequency.
Persistent headache.
Insomnia.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Increased leukorrhea, or vaginal discharge, is a common and normal physiological finding during pregnancy due to increased estrogen levels and blood flow to the vaginal area. This increase in discharge helps prevent ascending infections. Unless accompanied by itching, odor, or color changes, it typically does not indicate a problem.
Choice B rationale
Urinary frequency is a common symptom in late pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. It results from the enlarging uterus compressing the bladder, reducing its capacity, and increasing renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, leading to increased urine production. It is a normal physiological adaptation.
Choice C rationale
A persistent headache in a pregnant client, especially in the third trimester, is a priority to assess further because it can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. Other symptoms of preeclampsia include visual disturbances, right upper quadrant pain, and proteinuria. Early identification is crucial for intervention.
Choice D rationale
Insomnia is a common complaint during the third trimester of pregnancy. It can be attributed to various factors such as physical discomfort, frequent urination, fetal movements, anxiety, and hormonal changes. While bothersome, it is generally considered a normal, though often challenging, aspect of late pregnancy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing an opportunity to connect with others who have experienced similar losses offers significant psychosocial support. Sharing experiences can normalize grief, reduce feelings of isolation, and validate emotions. This peer support can facilitate the grieving process by fostering a sense of community and understanding during a challenging time.
Choice B rationale
While some causes of spontaneous abortion can be identified, many remain unknown even after the expulsion of fetal tissue. Genetic anomalies, chromosomal abnormalities, or uterine factors are often implicated, but a definitive cause is not always determined. Providing this information can create unrealistic expectations and potential disappointment for the client.
Choice C rationale
The decision to view fetal remains is highly personal and depends on individual coping mechanisms and cultural beliefs. For some, it can be a crucial part of acknowledging the loss and beginning the grieving process. Advising against it prematurely removes a potential avenue for closure and validation for the client.
Choice D rationale
Validating the client's grief, regardless of the gestational age, is crucial for emotional well-being. Acknowledging that it is "okay to feel some grief now" provides permission for the client to experience their emotions. Grief is a subjective process, and the intensity and duration are not dictated by the length of the pregnancy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A hematocrit of 37% falls within the normal physiological range for a pregnant individual, which typically expands due to increased plasma volume. This hemodilution is a normal adaptive response to pregnancy, ensuring adequate perfusion to the placenta and fetal unit. This finding does not warrant reporting as it reflects a healthy maternal circulatory adjustment.
Choice B rationale
A creatinine level of 0.9 mg/dL is within the normal reference range for renal function in pregnant individuals. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) increases during pregnancy, leading to a slight decrease in serum creatinine. This value indicates appropriate renal clearance and is not a cause for concern.
Choice C rationale
A WBC count of 11,000/mm³ is generally considered within the physiological elevation often seen during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. This mild leukocytosis is an immunological adaptation, supporting the maternal immune response without indicating an infectious process or pathology that requires immediate reporting.
Choice D rationale
A fasting blood glucose of 180 mg/dL is significantly elevated above the normal range (74 to 106 mg/dL) and indicates hyperglycemia. This finding is highly suggestive of gestational diabetes mellitus, which can lead to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes if not managed. Therefore, it requires immediate reporting to the provider for further evaluation and intervention.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.