A nurse is collecting data from a client who has hyponatremia.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Performing intermittent external electronic fetal monitoring is not the best choice in this situation. The client’s condition, which includes severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, rigid and tender abdomen, and late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, suggests a possible placental abruption. In such a case, continuous fetal monitoring is required to closely monitor the fetal heart rate and contractions.

Choice B rationale:

Monitoring vital signs at least every 15 min is necessary. The client’s blood pressure has dropped from 110/68 mm Hg to 95/59 mm Hg within 15 minutes. This could indicate hypovolemia due to blood loss. Regular monitoring can help detect changes early and initiate appropriate interventions.

Choice C rationale:

Placing the client in a supine position is not recommended. This position can exacerbate supine hypotensive syndrome, which occurs when the gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, reducing venous return and cardiac output. A side-lying position would be more appropriate.

Choice D rationale:

Obtaining a type and crossmatch is crucial. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible placental abruption, which can lead to significant blood loss. Having blood available for transfusion can be lifesaving.

Choice E rationale:

Measuring blood loss by weighing pads can provide an objective assessment of blood loss. This can help guide treatment decisions, including the need for blood transfusion.

Choice F rationale:

Inserting a large-bore IV catheter is necessary in this situation. It allows for rapid fluid and blood replacement if needed. Given the client’s symptoms and the potential for significant blood loss with placental abruption, this intervention is appropriate.

Choice A rationale:

Replace the IV pump's tubing. Replacing the IV pump's tubing is not the appropriate action when the IV pump screen is malfunctioning. Malfunctioning tubing does not typically affect the pump's screen or settings.

Choice B rationale:

Clear the settings and reset the IV pump. Clearing the settings and resetting the IV pump may not be effective if the screen is malfunctioning. It is important to ensure the accuracy and safety of IV fluid administration, and troubleshooting the screen is not a reliable solution in the case of a malfunction.

Choice C rationale:

Plug the IV pump's cord into a different outlet. Changing the outlet may help if the issue is related to electrical power, but it is not the most appropriate action when the IV pump screen is malfunctioning. Safety concerns and potential equipment issues warrant discontinuing use and tagging the pump.

Choice D rationale:

Discontinue use and tag the IV pump. When the IV pump screen is malfunctioning, the safest and most appropriate action is to discontinue its use and tag the pump. This ensures that the malfunctioning equipment is not used on other patients and that a thorough inspection and repair can be conducted to prevent potential harm to the patient.