A primigravida is being monitored at the prenatal clinic for preeclampsia. Which finding is of greatest concern to the nurse?
Dipstick value of 3+ for protein in her urine
Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day
Weight gain of 0.5 kg during the past 2 weeks
Blood pressure (BP) increase to 138/86 mm Hg
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Dipstick value of 3+ for protein in her urine is a sign of significant proteinuria, which is one of the diagnostic criteria for preeclampsia, along with hypertension. Proteinuria indicates renal damage and impaired glomerular filtration, which can lead to complications, such as oliguria, eclampsia, or HELLP syndrome.
Choice B reason: Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day is a common and expected finding in pregnancy, as it results from the increased blood volume, venous pressure, and fluid retention. Edema is not a reliable indicator of preeclampsia, unless it is severe, generalized, or sudden.
Choice C reason: Weight gain of 0.5 kg during the past 2 weeks is a normal and expected finding in pregnancy, as it reflects the growth and development of the fetus, placenta, and maternal tissues. Weight gain is not a reliable indicator of preeclampsia, unless it is excessive, rapid, or associated with edema.
Choice D reason: Blood pressure (BP) increase to 138/86 mm Hg is a mild elevation that may indicate gestational hypertension, but not preeclampsia, unless it is accompanied by proteinuria or other signs of organ dysfunction. The diagnostic threshold for preeclampsia is a BP of 140/90 mm Hg or higher on two occasions at least four hours apart.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This statement is insensitive and dismissive, as it implies that the client's feelings are not valid or important. The nurse should not minimize the client's disappointment or guilt, but rather acknowledge and respect them.
Choice B reason: This statement is inaccurate and irrelevant, as it does not address the client's emotional needs or concerns. The nurse should not give false or misleading information, or focus on the physical aspects of recovery, but rather provide emotional support and education.
Choice C reason: This statement is presumptuous and unrealistic, as it assumes that the client wants or can have another pregnancy, and that a vaginal delivery is possible or preferable. The nurse should not make assumptions or promises, or compare different modes of delivery, but rather explore the client's feelings and expectations.
Choice D reason: This statement is empathetic and respectful, as it reflects the client's feelings and validates them. The nurse should use active listening and therapeutic communication skills, such as open-ended questions, clarifications, and summarizations, to help the client cope and express her emotions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Prostaglandin E2 is not an appropriate medication for the client, because it is a uterotonic agent that stimulates uterine contractions and cervical ripening. Prostaglandin E2 is used to induce labor, not to stop it.
Choice B reason: Methylergonovine is not an appropriate medication for the client, because it is a uterotonic agent that causes sustained uterine contractions and vasoconstriction. Methylergonovine is used to prevent or treat postpartum hemorrhage, not to stop preterm labor.
Choice C reason: Terbutaline is an appropriate medication for the client, because it is a tocolytic agent that relaxes the uterine smooth muscle and inhibits contractions. Terbutaline is used to delay preterm labor and prolong pregnancy.
Choice D reason: Oxytocin is not an appropriate medication for the client, because it is a uterotonic agent that stimulates uterine contractions and milk ejection. Oxytocin is used to augment labor, not to stop it.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
