A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is at 34 weeks of gestation and at risk for placental abruption. Does the nurse recognize that which of the following is the most common risk factor for a placental abruption?
Maternal hypertension.
Maternal cocaine use.
Maternal cigarette smoking.
Maternal battering.
The Correct Answer is A

The correct answer is choice A, Maternal hypertension.
Choice A rationale:
Maternal hypertension is widely recognized as the most common risk factor for placental abruption. High blood pressure can cause the placenta to detach from the uterine wall, leading to abruption. In summary, while all the listed factors can contribute to the risk of placental abruption, maternal hypertension stands out as the most common cause, supported by multiple health sources. It’s important for nurses to recognize and manage hypertension in pregnant clients to minimize the risk of this serious complication.
Choice B rationale:
While maternal cocaine use is a significant risk factor for placental abruption due to its vasoconstrictive effects, which can compromise the placental blood flow, it is not as common as maternal hypertension.
Choice C rationale:
Maternal cigarette smoking is also a risk factor for placental abruption. Smoking can lead to a variety of complications in pregnancy, including placental problems, but again, it is less common than hypertension as a cause for abruption.
Choice D rationale:
Maternal battering can lead to trauma which may result in placental abruption. However, it is not considered the most common risk factor when compared to maternal hypertension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
The correct answers are choices A. Blood pressure, B. Cerebral manifestations, and E. Deep tendon reflexes.
Choice A rationale:
Blood pressure is a critical parameter to monitor, especially in the third trimester. Elevated blood pressure can indicate preeclampsia, a serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Choice B rationale:
Cerebral manifestations, such as headaches or visual disturbances, can also be signs of preeclampsia. These symptoms should be reported to the provider immediately.
Choice C rationale:
The fetal heart rate of 158/min is within the normal range (110-160 beats per minute) and does not need to be reported.
Choice D rationale:
The respiratory rate is not mentioned in the provided notes, and there is no indication that it is abnormal. Therefore, it does not need to be reported.
Choice E rationale:
Deep tendon reflexes that are hyperactive (3+) can be a sign of preeclampsia. This finding should be reported to the provider.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should include teaching the client to perform daily fetal movement counts because it is an essential aspect of monitoring the baby's well-being and assessing fetal distress. Fetal movement counts help the client become familiar with their baby's normal patterns of movement, allowing them to detect any changes or decreased movements promptly. This can be crucial in identifying potential issues with the baby's health and seeking timely medical attention.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should not advise limiting fluid intake to 1,000 mL/day for a client with mild preeclampsia. Adequate hydration is important during pregnancy, and excessive fluid restriction can lead to dehydration, which is harmful to both the mother and the baby. Preeclampsia can cause fluid retention and high blood pressure, but complete fluid restriction is not the appropriate approach for managing the condition.
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should not suggest limiting sodium intake to 2,000 mg/day for a client with mild preeclampsia. While reducing sodium intake can be beneficial for some individuals with hypertension, it is not the primary focus in managing mild preeclampsia. The mainstay of treatment for mild preeclampsia typically involves close monitoring, rest, and potential medications to control blood pressure if necessary.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should not recommend that the client rest in bed in the supine position. During pregnancy, especially with preeclampsia, lying flat on the back (supine position) can lead to a condition called supine hypotensive syndrome. This occurs when the weight of the uterus presses on the vena cava, reducing blood flow back to the heart and potentially causing a drop in blood pressure and decreased blood flow to the baby.
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