A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted in preterm labor at 33 weeks gestation.
The provider has ordered betamethasone 12 mg IM every 24 hours.
Before administering the medication, what should the nurse include in client teaching?
This medication is used to increase fetal surfactant production.
This medication increases the fetal heart rate.
This medication is used to increase amniotic fluid levels.
This medication is used to stop preterm labor contractions.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that accelerates fetal lung maturity by increasing the production of surfactant, which reduces respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.
Choice B rationale
While betamethasone can cause transient increases in fetal heart rate, its primary purpose is not to increase fetal heart rate. Its role is in enhancing lung maturity.
Choice C rationale
Betamethasone does not directly increase amniotic fluid levels. Its main function is in the maturation of fetal lungs.
Choice D rationale
Betamethasone is not used to stop preterm labor contractions. It is used to accelerate fetal lung development in preterm labor cases.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Uterine atony is a common complication following polyhydramnios because the excessive amniotic fluid can lead to uterine overdistension, which in turn can cause poor uterine muscle tone and increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
Thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein with clot formation, but it is not directly associated with polyhydramnios.
Choice C rationale
Postpartum preeclampsia is high blood pressure and signs of organ damage after delivery, but there is no direct link between polyhydramnios and this condition.
Choice D rationale
Retained placental fragments can lead to postpartum hemorrhage but are not specifically associated with polyhydramnios.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pelvic pain and fatigue can be indicators of endometritis, an infection of the uterine lining. It often manifests with pain, fever, and general malaise, and requires further evaluation and intervention.
Choice B rationale
Light amount of dark red lochia with a bloody odor is a normal postpartum finding. Lochia progresses through different stages, and dark red lochia, which occurs in the later stages, typically has a bloody odor.
Choice C rationale
Hematuria, or the presence of blood in the urine, is not a typical symptom of endometritis. It may indicate a urinary tract infection or other renal issues instead.
Choice D rationale
A localized area of breast tenderness may indicate mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue. It is not related to endometritis but requires attention and treatment.
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