A nurse is speaking with a client who is addicted to heroin and who just learned that she is pregnant. The client states, "I just started taking methadone. Is there anything else I can do to make sure my baby is healthy? Which information should the nurse provide?
Describe genetic testing protocols
Discontinue the methadone right away
Sign up for group therapy sessions
Start a prenatal care plan as soon as possible
The Correct Answer is D
A. Describe genetic testing protocols: While genetic testing may be part of prenatal care, it's not the primary concern for a pregnant woman addicted to heroin. The focus should be on managing the addiction and promoting a healthy pregnancy.
B. Discontinue the methadone right away: Abruptly stopping methadone, or any opioid replacement therapy, can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be harmful to both the mother and the fetus. It's crucial for pregnant individuals on methadone to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage the transition.
C. Sign up for group therapy sessions: Group therapy can be a supportive intervention for individuals dealing with addiction, but it should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medical management.
D. Start a prenatal care plan as soon as possible: This is the most appropriate choice. Prenatal care is crucial for monitoring the health of both the mother and the baby. Starting early allows healthcare providers to address any potential issues and provide necessary support. This includes managing the mother's opioid addiction through medications like methadone, which can be administered under close medical supervision during pregnancy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Document the findings in the record: Documenting the findings is important, but it doesn't address the potential issue of hypoglycemia.
B. Obtain a heel stick blood glucose level: This is the most appropriate action given the signs presented. A low blood glucose level can be a critical issue in newborns and requires prompt evaluation and management.
C. Place a pulse oximeter on the heel: While oxygen saturation monitoring is valuable in certain situations, it may not be the priority in this case where hypoglycemia is suspected.
D. Swaddle the infant in a warm blanket: While maintaining warmth is important, especially if the baby is hypothermic, addressing the potential hypoglycemia takes precedence.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer oxygen via facemask: Oxygen administration is generally a step in managing fetal distress. However, when dealing with variable decelerations, the initial action involves repositioning the mother to alleviate potential cord compression, as variable decelerations are often due to compression of the umbilical cord.
B. Turn off the oxytocin infusion: If variable decelerations persist despite repositioning, it might be necessary to discontinue the oxytocin (Pitocin) infusion temporarily. Oxytocin can cause or exacerbate uterine hyperstimulation, which can contribute to fetal distress.
C. Assess cervical dilatation: Assessing cervical dilatation might be a part of the overall assessment but might not directly address the immediate issue of variable decelerations. However, it's essential to monitor the progress of labor as part of the broader assessment.
D. Change the client's position: This is the recommended first action for variable decelerations. Repositioning the mother, such as moving her to a lateral or knee-chest position, can relieve potential cord compression and improve fetal oxygenation.
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