Based on the clients assessment on 2/11 at 1200, indicate if the client's condition is improving, worsening or not related based on the condition.
Deep tendon reflexes (DTR)
Creatinine
client denies pain
Vaginal exam
Blood pressure
Decreased sensation in legs
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"C"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"A"},"F":{"answers":"C"}}
A. Deep tendon reflexes (DTR) – Worsening
On 2/10, the client had hyperreflexia (DTRs 3+) and no clonus. By 2/11, the DTRs had increased to 4+ with positive clonus, indicating neuromuscular hyperexcitability, a hallmark of worsening preeclampsia with severe features. Clonus is a concerning sign that suggests progression toward eclampsia (seizures). This indicates neurological worsening.
B. Creatinine – Worsening
The client's creatinine level increased from 1.4 mg/dL (already elevated) to 2.0 mg/dL, which is indicative of worsening renal function. Normal pregnancy should not cause a creatinine rise above 1.1 mg/dL, so this elevation suggests renal impairment due to severe preeclampsia. The worsening creatinine level indicates deteriorating kidney function, possibly due to reduced renal perfusion.
C. Client denies pain – Unrelated
The absence of pain is not directly related to the client’s condition worsening or improving. While pain can be a symptom of severe preeclampsia (such as epigastric pain from liver involvement), the client currently has an epidural, which can explain the lack of pain perception. The denial of pain does not indicate improvement in the disease process but rather effective pain management.
D. Vaginal exam – Improvement
The vaginal exam findings indicate progress in labor. On 2/10, the client was not noted to be in active labor, but by 2/11, she was 7 cm dilated, 80% effaced, and at 0 station, with contractions increasing in frequency and intensity. This progression suggests that labor is advancing appropriately.
E. Blood pressure – Worsening
The client’s blood pressure was severely elevated on 2/10 (168/100 mmHg) and remained high on 2/11 (152/86 mmHg). While slightly lower, the diastolic remains elevated, and systolic pressures are still high. Given the worsening DTRs, renal function decline, and elevated liver enzymes, the blood pressure changes are not a sign of improvement but rather persistent hypertension despite possible interventions.
F. Decreased sensation in legs – Unrelated
The client received an epidural for pain relief, which normally causes decreased sensation in the lower extremities. This finding is not related to worsening preeclampsia or labor progression but is an expected effect of the epidural anesthesia. The client’s ability to slightly move her legs confirms that the block is working properly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Unexplained weight gain
This is incorrect because weight gain is not a characteristic symptom of endometriosis. Endometriosis primarily affects the reproductive organs and is associated with pain and infertility rather than metabolic or weight-related changes.
B. Pain during menstrual period
This is correct because dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is a hallmark symptom of endometriosis due to the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue responding to hormonal changes.
C. Pain during intercourse
This is correct because dyspareunia (pain during intercourse) is a common symptom of endometriosis due to the inflammatory and fibrotic changes caused by ectopic endometrial tissue.
D. Infertility
This is correct because endometriosis can lead to infertility due to scarring, adhesions, and inflammation affecting the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Many clients with endometriosis seek medical attention due to difficulty conceiving.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Feeling anxious about the baby's health and well-being, but still able to care for the baby effectively
Mild anxiety about the baby’s health is a common experience for new mothers and does not necessarily indicate PPD. It becomes concerning if anxiety becomes overwhelming or interferes with daily functioning.
B. Experiencing occasional mood swings and irritability while adjusting to the new role of motherhood
Mood swings and irritability are normal postpartum adjustments, often due to hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities. These symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks.
C. Feeling overwhelmed and having difficulty sleeping due to the demands of a newborn
Feeling overwhelmed and sleep disturbances are common in the postpartum period due to frequent infant care needs. However, severe or persistent sleep disturbances, especially with loss of interest in daily activities, may indicate PPD.
D. Persistent feelings of sadness, severe fatigue, and loss of interest in activities, including caring for the baby
Postpartum depression is characterized by prolonged sadness, extreme fatigue, withdrawal, and difficulty bonding with the baby. These symptoms extend beyond normal postpartum blues (which typically resolve within two weeks) and require medical intervention, including therapy and possibly medication.
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