A nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who had pre-term labor at 32 weeks of gestation and was prescribed bed rest at home.

Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

White blood cell count 25,000/mm3.

This indicates a potential complication of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which is the death of intestinal tissue in premature or sick newborns.A high white blood cell count can be a sign of infection or inflammation in the bowel, which are common features of NEC.

Choice A is wrong because hematocrit 45% is within the normal range for newborns.

Hematocrit measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.

A low hematocrit can indicate blood loss or anemia, which can be complications of NEC, but a normal hematocrit does not rule out NEC.

Choice B is wrong because platelets 150,000/mm3 is also within the normal range for newborns.

Platelets are cells that help the blood clot.A low platelet count can indicate a consumption coagulopathy, which is a bleeding disorder that can occur in severe cases of NEC.

However, a normal platelet count does not exclude NEC.

Choice D is wrong because blood glucose 80 mg/dL is also within the normal range for newborns.

Blood glucose measures the amount of sugar in the blood.

A low blood glucose can indicate hypoglycemia, which can be caused by sepsis or other conditions that mimic NEC, but a normal blood glucose does not eliminate NEC.

The client should not limit their physical activity and rest as much as possible, unless advised by their provider.Excessive rest and inactivity can increase the risk of blood clots and decrease blood circulation, which can affect the placenta and the fetus.The client should follow the recommended guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy, unless they have a medical condition that requires bed rest or reduced activity.

Choice A is wrong because smoking and drinking alcohol during pregnancy are known risk factors for preterm labor and birth.Smoking can reduce blood flow to the placenta and affect fetal growth and development, while alcohol can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other complications.

Choice B is wrong because reporting any vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage to the provider is important to prevent or treat preterm labor and birth.Bleeding can indicate placenta previa or placental abruption, which are serious conditions that can cause premature delivery or fetal distress.Fluid leakage can indicate rupture of membranes, which can increase the risk of infection and preterm labor.

Choice D is wrong because drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet are beneficial for the health of the mother and the fetus.Dehydration can cause uterine contractions and trigger preterm labor, while malnutrition can affect fetal growth and development.A balanced diet can also help prevent or manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and anemia, which are risk factors for preterm labor and birth.