A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who is at 29 weeks of gestation and has a history of anemia.Which of the following results should the nurse identify and report as an indication of a prenatal complication?
BUN 25 mg/dL (10 to 20 mg/dL).
Hgb 10.2 mg/dL (11 to 16 mg/dL).
Fasting blood glucose 70 mg/dL (70 to 110 mg/dL).
Hct 32% (33 to 47%).
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is Choice A
Choice A rationale: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 25 mg/dL exceeds the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL and may indicate impaired renal function or dehydration. In pregnancy, elevated BUN is concerning because renal perfusion is typically increased, leading to lower BUN levels. A rise suggests possible renal compromise, which can affect fetal development and maternal health. It warrants provider notification to assess for underlying pathology such as preeclampsia or renal insufficiency.
Choice B rationale: Hemoglobin level of 10.2 mg/dL is slightly below the normal pregnancy range of 11 to 16 mg/dL, indicating mild anemia. However, in the context of pregnancy, especially with a known history of anemia, this value is not critically low. Iron supplementation and dietary adjustments are typically sufficient. It does not represent an acute complication unless accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, pallor, or tachycardia. Therefore, it does not require immediate provider notification.
Choice C rationale: Fasting blood glucose of 70 mg/dL is at the lower end of the normal range for pregnancy, which spans from 70 to 110 mg/dL. This value is physiologically acceptable and does not indicate hypoglycemia or gestational diabetes. During pregnancy, insulin sensitivity fluctuates, but a fasting glucose of 70 mg/dL is not pathologic. No intervention is needed unless symptomatic hypoglycemia occurs. Thus, this result is not indicative of a prenatal complication.
Choice D rationale: Hematocrit level of 32% is slightly below the normal pregnancy range of 33 to 47%, reflecting mild dilutional anemia due to plasma volume expansion. This is a common physiological adaptation in pregnancy and not necessarily pathologic. Unless accompanied by symptoms or a significant drop in hemoglobin, this value alone does not indicate a prenatal complication. Monitoring and nutritional support are appropriate, but urgent provider notification is not required.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
During labor, the body experiences physiological stress, which typically causes an increase, not a decrease, in white blood cell (WBC) count. This increase is a normal response to stress.
Choice B rationale
Blood glucose levels can decrease during labor due to the energy expenditure and physiological demands of the process. This is why it is important to monitor glucose levels and provide necessary interventions if hypoglycemia occurs.
Choice C rationale
The respiratory rate generally increases during labor to meet the increased oxygen demands of the body. A decrease in respiratory rate is not expected during this time.
Choice D rationale
Body temperature may increase slightly during labor due to the physical exertion and metabolic activity involved. A decrease in temperature is not a typical finding during labor. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Methadone is often prescribed to pregnant women with opioid use disorder and is considered safe for breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can provide additional benefits such as bonding and transferring antibodies to the infant.
Choice B rationale
Methamphetamine use during pregnancy is linked to fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and low birth weight, not fetal macrosomia (large body size).
Choice C rationale
Reducing environmental stimuli is essential for neonates exposed to substances in utero. Increased stimuli can overwhelm their underdeveloped nervous systems, leading to stress and adverse outcomes.
Choice D rationale
Fetal alcohol syndrome is characterized by growth deficiencies, facial abnormalities, and central nervous system dysfunction. An increased head circumference is not a typical feature; rather, microcephaly (small head circumference) is more common.
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