A nurse is preparing to insert an indwelling urinary catheter for a client.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Choice A rationale:

Irritability is a common withdrawal symptom in newborns exposed to cocaine during pregnancy. Cocaine exposure can lead to irritability, restlessness, and difficulty in consoling the newborn.

Choice B rationale:

Hypotonicity, or decreased muscle tone, is not a common finding associated with cocaine exposure in newborns. Cocaine exposure more commonly results in hypertonicity, where the muscles are tense and rigid.

Choice C rationale:

Decreased auditory startle response is not a typical finding associated with cocaine exposure. Newborns exposed to cocaine may have an exaggerated startle response, which is the opposite of the expected finding in this case.

Choice D rationale:

Increased head circumference is not a characteristic finding associated with cocaine exposure. Cocaine exposure is more likely to cause growth restriction, low birth weight, and microcephaly (small head size) in newborns.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should ensure that the side rails are up on the client's bed. This action is essential for the safety of the client with severe preeclampsia, as it prevents accidental falls or injuries. Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, and it poses significant risks to both the mother and the fetus. By keeping the side rails up, the nurse can minimize the risk of falls and ensure the client's safety while in bed.

Choice B rationale:

Ambulating the client every 4 hours is not appropriate for a pregnant woman with severe preeclampsia. Preeclampsia can cause high blood pressure, swelling, and proteinuria. It is a serious condition that requires close monitoring and strict bed rest to prevent complications such as seizures or eclampsia. Ambulation may increase the risk of falls and is contraindicated in this situation.

Choice C rationale:

Checking the fetal heart rate twice daily is important in the care of a pregnant client with severe preeclampsia. However, ensuring the client's safety by keeping the side rails up on the bed takes priority. While monitoring the fetal heart rate is crucial for assessing the baby's well-being, it does not address the immediate safety concerns of the client, which can be addressed by maintaining the side rails up.

Choice D rationale:

Providing the client with a low-protein diet is not the correct action for a pregnant woman with severe preeclampsia. In fact, pregnant women with preeclampsia are often advised to increase their protein intake to help manage their condition. A low-protein diet can lead to malnutrition and may not provide the necessary nutrients for both the mother and the developing fetus. The primary focus should be on bed rest, monitoring vital signs, and managing symptoms to prevent complications.