During a prenatal visit, a client at 30 weeks gestation reports persistent heartburn during the past two weeks.
The nurse notes the client has 3+ bilateral, pitting, pedal edema.
Which action should the nurse implement?
Explain that heartburn is a common discomfort.
Ask if blurred vision and headache have occurred.
Check urine for presence of glucose and ketones.
Instruct the client to take an antacid as needed.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While heartburn is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus, the presence of 3+ bilateral pitting pedal edema raises concerns. This symptom could indicate a more serious condition, such as preeclampsia, and should not be dismissed as a normal discomfort.
Choice B rationale
Asking if blurred vision and headache have occurred is essential because these symptoms, along with significant edema, are indicators of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organ systems, often requiring immediate medical attention.
Choice C rationale
Checking urine for glucose and ketones is relevant for assessing gestational diabetes but does not address the immediate concern of preeclampsia. The symptoms of edema and possible preeclampsia should be prioritized over concerns of gestational diabetes.
Choice D rationale
Instructing the client to take an antacid for heartburn does not address the critical issue of significant edema. While heartburn relief is important, the symptoms of edema need immediate evaluation to rule out preeclampsia or other complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hypoglycemia is a common concern for newborns with low birth weight. Their glucose reserves are limited, and they have a higher metabolic rate, making them prone to low blood sugar levels.
Choice B rationale
Polycythemia, an increased red blood cell count, is not typically a primary concern based on the measurements given. It is more commonly associated with conditions like delayed cord clamping or maternal diabetes.
Choice C rationale
Hyperthermia is not a primary concern based on the provided measurements. Thermoregulation issues might arise, but initial focus should be on managing glucose levels.
Choice D rationale
Hyperbilirubinemia, or jaundice, can occur in newborns but is not the immediate priority based on the given physical findings. Monitoring and managing blood sugar levels is more critical in the initial hours after birth.
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Performing a vaginal exam is crucial in assessing the progress of labor and the condition of the cervix, particularly if the client has reported symptoms such as contractions, bleeding, or fluid leakage. It helps determine if the client is in active labor or if there are any complications requiring immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
Taking vital signs is essential to assess the client's overall health and identify any signs of distress or complications. Vital signs provide critical information about the client's cardiovascular and respiratory status, which is important for immediate clinical decision-making.
Choice C rationale
Palpating the bladder is important in assessing for bladder distention, which can impede labor progress or cause discomfort. However, it is not the immediate priority compared to assessing labor progress and overall health status.
Choice D rationale
Examining the amniotic fluid is important for determining its characteristics, which can provide information about the fetal well-being. However, this action is secondary to performing a vaginal exam and taking vital signs in the immediate assessment.
Choice E rationale
Dipstick urine for protein and ketones helps in assessing for preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, but it does not address the immediate need to assess labor progress and the client's overall health status.
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