A nurse is caring for a female client scheduled to have a pelvic exam. The client tells the nurse, “I’m really nervous.
I’ve never had a pelvic exam before.” Which of the following is an appropriate therapeutic response by the nurse?
A pelvic exam is required if you want birth control pills
Don't worry, I will stay in there with you for the exam
All you need to do is relax during the exam
Tell me more about your concerns
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale for Choice A:
A pelvic exam is required if you want birth control pills. This response is not therapeutic because it dismisses the client's feelings and does not address her concerns. It focuses on the policy or requirement rather than the client's emotional needs. It could make the client feel like her anxiety is not justified or that she has no choice in the matter.
Rationale for Choice B:
Don't worry, I will stay in there with you for the exam. While this response may be intended to provide reassurance, it does not fully address the client's underlying concerns. It offers a solution without first exploring the specific reasons for the client's anxiety. It could also make the client feel dependent on the nurse's presence for comfort, rather than empowering her to manage her own anxiety.
Rationale for Choice C:
All you need to do is relax during the exam. This response is not therapeutic because it minimizes the client's feelings and suggests that she can simply control her anxiety by relaxing. It does not acknowledge the validity of her concerns or provide any guidance on how to manage those concerns. It could make the client feel like her anxiety is her fault or that she is not coping well.
Rationale for Choice D:
Tell me more about your concerns. This is the most therapeutic response because it encourages the client to express her feelings and concerns openly. It validates the client's experience and demonstrates active listening and empathy. It provides an opportunity for the nurse to gather more information about the specific reasons for the client's anxiety and to tailor interventions accordingly. It also empowers the client by allowing her to share her thoughts and take control of the conversation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answers are Choices D
Choice A rationale: Constipation is a common symptom during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the intestines. It generally does not warrant immediate reporting to the provider unless it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Choice B rationale: Low back pain is also a typical complaint during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It is often due to the additional weight and changes in posture. While it can be uncomfortable, it is usually not an urgent concern unless it is severe or associated with other symptoms.
Choice C rationale: Leukorrhea, or increased vaginal discharge, is common during pregnancy and is generally not a cause for concern. It helps protect the birth canal from infection and is typically not something that requires immediate reporting unless it is accompanied by itching, foul odor, or unusual color.
Choice D rationale: Blurred vision is a potential sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition that can develop during pregnancy and pose risks to both the mother and baby. This symptom warrants immediate reporting to the provider for further evaluation.
Correct Answer is E
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Maternal battering, or physical abuse during pregnancy, is a risk factor for placental abruption. However, it is not the most common risk factor. Studies have shown that the incidence of placental abruption is about 2-4 times higher in women who have experienced physical abuse during pregnancy compared to those who have not. However, the overall prevalence of physical abuse during pregnancy is estimated to be around 4-8%, while the prevalence of maternal hypertension is much higher, affecting about 10-15% of pregnancies.
Choice B rationale:
Cigarette smoking is also a risk factor for placental abruption. The nicotine in cigarettes causes vasoconstriction, which can reduce blood flow to the placenta. This can lead to placental abruption, especially in women who smoke heavily. However, while smoking is a significant risk factor, it is still less common than maternal hypertension.
Choice C rationale:
Maternal age is associated with an increased risk of placental abruption. Women over the age of 35 are at a higher risk than younger women. This is likely due to changes in the blood vessels of the uterus that occur with age. However, age alone is not as strong a predictor as hypertension.
Choice D rationale:
Maternal cocaine use is a significant risk factor for placental abruption. Cocaine causes vasoconstriction and can also lead to high blood pressure. This combination of factors can significantly increase the risk of placental abruption. However, cocaine use is much less prevalent than hypertension in the general population.
Choice E rationale:
Maternal hypertension, or high blood pressure during pregnancy, is the most common risk factor for placental abruption. Hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the uterus, which can lead to placental abruption. Approximately 50% of placental abruptions are associated with hypertension.
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