A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted to the maternity unit at 38 weeks of gestation and who is experiencing polyhydramnios. The nurse should understand that this diagnosis means which of the following?

The client is carrying more than one fetus.

The fetus is likely to have a congenital anomaly, be growth restricted, or demonstrate fetal distress during labor.

An excessive amount of amniotic fluid is present.

There is an elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the amniotic fluid.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the definition of polyhydramnios, but rather a possible cause of it. Polyhydramnios is a condition where the amniotic fluid volume exceeds 2,000 mL at term, or the amniotic fluid index (AFI) is greater than 25 cm. Polyhydramnios can occur in multiple pregnancies, as the fetuses produce more urine and fluid than a single fetus.

Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the definition of polyhydramnios, but rather a possible complication of it. Polyhydramnios can cause fetal anomalies, such as esophageal atresia, anencephaly, or neural tube defects, which impair the swallowing or absorption of the amniotic fluid. Polyhydramnios can also cause fetal growth restriction or distress, as the excess fluid can compress the umbilical cord or the placenta, and reduce the blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus.

Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as it is the definition of polyhydramnios, which is a condition where the amniotic fluid volume exceeds 2,000 mL at term, or the amniotic fluid index (AFI) is greater than 25 cm. Polyhydramnios can be diagnosed by ultrasound, and it can cause maternal and fetal complications, such as preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, placental abruption, or cord prolapse.

Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the definition of polyhydramnios, but rather a marker of fetal anomalies. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that is produced by the fetus, and it can be measured in the maternal serum or the amniotic fluid. An elevated level of AFP in the amniotic fluid can indicate fetal anomalies, such as neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects, or renal anomalies, which can cause polyhydramnios.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: A client who is experiencing preterm labor at 26 weeks of gestation is a suitable candidate for tocolytic therapy, because it can help delay the delivery and allow time for fetal lung maturation and transfer to a tertiary care center. Tocolytic therapy is indicated for clients who have regular uterine contractions and cervical changes before 37 weeks of gestation.

Choice B reason: A client who is experiencing fetal death at 32 weeks of gestation is not a suitable candidate for tocolytic therapy, because it has no benefit for the mother or the fetus. Tocolytic therapy is contraindicated for clients who have fetal demise, as it can increase the risk of infection and coagulation disorders.

Choice C reason: A client who has a post-term pregnancy at 42 weeks of gestation is not a suitable candidate for tocolytic therapy, because it can harm the mother and the fetus. Tocolytic therapy is contraindicated for clients who have post-term pregnancy, as it can increase the risk of placental insufficiency, fetal distress, and meconium aspiration.

Choice D reason: A client who is experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions at 36 weeks of gestation is not a suitable candidate for tocolytic therapy, because it is not necessary or effective. Braxton-Hicks contractions are irregular and painless contractions that do not cause cervical changes or labor. They are normal and harmless, and do not require any intervention.

A. Blunt force trauma B. Hypertension C. Gestational diabetes mellitus D. Cigarette smoking

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Blunt force trauma is a possible risk factor for placental abruption, which is a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall and causes bleeding, pain, and fetal distress. However, blunt force trauma is not the most common risk factor, as it accounts for only a small percentage of cases. The most common causes of blunt force trauma are motor vehicle accidents, falls, or domestic violence.

Choice B reason: Hypertension is the most common risk factor for placental abruption, as it affects about 50% of cases. Hypertension can cause vasospasm and reduced blood flow to the placenta, which can weaken the attachment and lead to separation. Hypertension can be chronic, gestational, or related to preeclampsia.

Choice C reason: Gestational diabetes mellitus is not a risk factor for placental abruption, but rather a condition where the client develops high blood sugar levels during pregnancy and can cause complications, such as macrosomia, polyhydramnios, or neonatal hypoglycemia. Gestational diabetes mellitus does not affect the placental attachment or function.

Choice D reason: Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for placental abruption, as it can cause vasoconstriction and reduced oxygen delivery to the placenta, which can impair its growth and development. However, cigarette smoking is not the most common risk factor, as it affects about 25% of cases.

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A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted to the maternity unit at 38 weeks of gestation and who is experiencing polyhydramnios. The nurse should understand that this diagnosis means which of the following?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for several clients. The nurse should recognize that it is safe to administer tocolytic therapy to which of the following clients?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse in a provider's office is caring for a client who is at 34 weeks of gestation and at risk for placental abruption. The nurse should recognize that which of the following is the most common risk factor for abruption?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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