A nurse is teaching a client who is perimenopausal and has recurrent lower back pain. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Choice A reason: A client who had a stroke and is to be admitted

Assigning a client who had a stroke and is to be admitted might not be the best choice for an RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. Stroke patients often require specialized neurological assessments and interventions that the RN might not be familiar with. Additionally, the initial admission process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring familiarity with the specific protocols and procedures of the medical-surgical unit.

Choice B reason: A client who is one-day postoperative following a total abdominal hysterectomy

This is the most appropriate assignment for the RN floated from the maternal-newborn unit. The RN is likely to be familiar with postoperative care, especially related to abdominal surgeries, given their experience in the maternal-newborn unit. Postoperative care involves monitoring vital signs, managing pain, and ensuring proper wound care, all of which are within the RN’s skill set. This familiarity can help ensure the client receives competent and safe care.

Choice C reason: A client who has acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis can be a complex condition requiring specialized knowledge of gastrointestinal issues and potential complications such as fluid and electrolyte imbalances, respiratory issues, and severe pain management. The RN from the maternal-newborn unit may not have the specific expertise needed to manage these complexities effectively.

Choice D reason: A client who has terminal end-stage renal disease

Caring for a client with terminal end-stage renal disease involves managing complex chronic conditions, including fluid balance, electrolyte management, and possibly dialysis. This requires specialized knowledge and skills that the RN from the maternal-newborn unit might not possess. Additionally, end-of-life care requires a specific set of competencies and experience that might not be within the RN’s usual scope of practice.

Choice A reason: Dilated scalp veins are a common manifestation of hydrocephalus in newborns. The increased intracranial pressure caused by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) can lead to prominent veins on the scalp. This is due to the increased pressure within the skull, which causes the veins to become more visible.

Choice B reason: Overriding suture lines are not typically associated with hydrocephalus. Overriding sutures are more commonly seen in conditions where there is a decrease in intracranial pressure, such as dehydration or after a significant loss of brain volume.

Choice C reason: Hypertension is not a direct manifestation of hydrocephalus in newborns. While increased intracranial pressure can affect various bodily functions, hypertension is not a primary symptom. Instead, symptoms like irritability, poor feeding, and vomiting are more common.

Choice D reason: A backward sloping appearance of the forehead is not a typical feature of hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus usually causes an increase in head size and a bulging fontanelle, but it does not typically result in a backward sloping forehead.