A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant and has suspected placenta previa. Which of the following should the nurse monitor the client for?

Large amount of bright red vaginal bleeding

Severe pain with no bleeding

High-grade fever

Sudden sharp pain in the lower abdomen

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale:
Large amount of bright red vaginal bleeding is the cardinal sign of placenta previa. This is because the placenta is abnormally positioned low in the uterus, covering the cervix partially or completely. When the cervix starts to dilate in preparation for labor, it can detach from the uterine wall, leading to significant bleeding. The blood is typically bright red, indicating fresh bleeding, and can be painless.
Severity of bleeding: The amount of bleeding can vary from spotting to massive hemorrhage, and it may start suddenly or gradually. Even a small amount of bleeding can be a sign of placenta previa and should not be ignored.
Risks of hemorrhage: Prompt recognition and management of bleeding are crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening hemorrhage for both the mother and the fetus.

Choice B rationale:
Severe pain with no bleeding is not a typical presentation of placenta previa. While some women with placenta previa may experience mild abdominal pain or cramping, severe pain without bleeding is more suggestive of placental abruption, a condition where the placenta prematurely separates from the uterine wall.

Choice C rationale:
High-grade fever is not a direct symptom of placenta previa. However, if a woman with placenta previa develops a fever, it could indicate an infection, which can further complicate the condition and require immediate medical attention.

Choice D rationale:
Sudden sharp pain in the lower abdomen can be a sign of placental abruption but is not characteristic of placenta previa.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale: The recommended weight gain for a woman with a normal BMI (18.5-24.9) during pregnancy is 25-35 pounds. This range ensures adequate nutrition for both the mother and the developing baby, supporting optimal fetal growth and maternal health.

Choice B rationale: A weight gain of 11-20 pounds is recommended for women with a high BMI (≥30) during pregnancy. This range helps minimize the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertension, but it is not applicable for a woman with a normal BMI.

Choice C rationale: While a healthy diet is crucial, specific weight gain guidelines are essential to ensure the health of both mother and baby. Weight gain recommendations are based on evidence to support optimal outcomes, making it important to follow them.

Choice D rationale: A weight gain of 15-25 pounds is recommended for women with an overweight BMI (25-29.9) during pregnancy. This range helps support fetal growth while minimizing the risk of complications, but it is not applicable for a woman with a normal BMI.

A. Initiate an IV infusion of magnesium sulfate. B. Administer antibiotics. C. Request the RN perform a cervical examination. D. Prepare for cesarean birth.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A:
Magnesium sulfate is a medication primarily used to prevent or manage seizures in women with preeclampsia or eclampsia, conditions characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy. It is not indicated for heavy vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy.
Administration of magnesium sulfate without a clear indication could potentially lead to adverse effects such as respiratory depression, decreased deep tendon reflexes, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Choice B:
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. While heavy vaginal bleeding can sometimes be a sign of infection, it is not the primary cause of bleeding in early pregnancy.
Indiscriminate use of antibiotics without a confirmed bacterial infection can contribute to antibiotic resistance and potentially mask the underlying cause of the bleeding.

Choice D:
Cesarean birth is a major surgical procedure that is typically reserved for situations where there is a risk to the mother or fetus, such as fetal distress, failure to progress in labor, or placental abruption.
It is not indicated as the first-line intervention for heavy vaginal bleeding in early pregnancy, as there are other less invasive diagnostic and management options available.

Choice C:
A cervical examination allows the healthcare provider to assess the condition of the cervix, including its dilation and effacement, as well as to potentially identify any sources of bleeding, such as cervical polyps or lesions.
This information is crucial in determining the appropriate course of management for the patient.
It can help differentiate between potential causes of bleeding, such as threatened miscarriage, inevitable miscarriage, or ectopic pregnancy.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant and has suspected placenta previa. Which of the following should the nurse monitor the client for?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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