A nurse is caring for a pregnant client and reviewing signs of complications that should be promptly reported to the provider.
Which of the following should be included?
Vaginal bleeding.
Lightheadedness when lying on back.
Heartburn after eating.
Swelling of the ankles.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign of a serious complication such as placenta previa or placental abruption. Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, which can lead to severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery. Placental abruption is a serious condition in which the placenta separates from the uterus before the baby is born, which can cause heavy bleeding and can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. Therefore, any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale
Lightheadedness when lying on the back, also known as supine hypotensive syndrome, can occur in pregnancy when the enlarged uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, reducing blood return to the heart and causing a drop in blood pressure. While this can be uncomfortable, it is generally not considered a serious complication and can be alleviated by changing position.
Choice C rationale
Heartburn after eating is a common discomfort during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. While it can be uncomfortable, it is generally not a sign of a serious complication.
Choice D rationale
Swelling of the ankles, also known as edema, is common in pregnancy due to increased fluid volume in the body. While it can be uncomfortable, it is generally not a sign of a serious complication unless it is sudden or severe, which could be a sign of preeclampsia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring vaginal bleeding is the priority nursing action for a client who is at 33 weeks of gestation and has a diagnosis of placenta previa. Placenta previa can cause painless, bright red vaginal bleeding during the third trimester. This bleeding can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus, making it crucial to monitor for this symptom.
Choice B rationale
Administering glucocorticoids is not the priority nursing action in this situation. While glucocorticoids can be used to accelerate fetal lung maturity in cases of preterm labor, they are not the primary treatment for placenta previa.
Choice C rationale
Inserting an IV catheter may be necessary for administering medications or fluids, but it is not the priority action. The nurse’s primary concern should be monitoring for signs of bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Applying an external fetal monitor can help assess the well-being of the fetus, but it is not the priority action. The nurse’s main focus should be on monitoring for vaginal bleeding.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Limiting noise and interruption in the delivery room can help create a calm environment, which can be beneficial for both the mother and the newborn. However, this is not the priority action for promoting maternal-infant bonding.
Choice B rationale
Encouraging parents to touch and explore the neonate’s features can help foster a connection between the parents and the newborn. This tactile stimulation can also be comforting for the newborn. However, this is not the most immediate action to promote maternal-infant bonding.
Choice C rationale
Placing the neonate skin-to-skin on the client’s chest is the priority action. Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth helps regulate the newborn’s temperature, heart rate, and breathing. It also promotes breastfeeding and bonding.
Choice D rationale
Placing the neonate at the client’s breast can promote breastfeeding, which can enhance maternal-infant bonding. However, this is not the first action to take. The priority is to establish skin-to-skin contact.
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.