During the preconception phase, the nurse should teach about which infectious diseases as risk factors for maternal complications? (Select all that apply).

Choice A rationale:

Nasal congestion and occasional epistaxis (nosebleeds) are common symptoms during pregnancy due to elevated levels of estrogen. Increased estrogen causes mucosal blood vessels to become engorged and more fragile, leading to nasal congestion and occasional nosebleeds. This is a normal respiratory change in pregnancy and not necessarily a cause for concern.

Choice B rationale:

While cardiovascular changes are common in pregnancy, nosebleeds alone are not indicative of abnormal cardiovascular changes unless they are accompanied by other symptoms. The given scenario does not provide enough information to support this choice.

Choice C rationale:

There is no evidence provided to suggest domestic violence (Choice C) as the cause of the woman's symptoms. Additionally, this choice lacks a physiological basis for the symptoms described.

Choice D rationale:

Intranasal cocaine use (Choice D) can indeed cause nasal congestion and frequent nosebleeds. However, the scenario does not provide any information to support this choice, and assuming drug use without evidence is not appropriate.

Choice A rationale:
Inspiratory stridor. Inspiratory stridor, a high-pitched sound heard during inhalation, is a common symptom of acute epiglottitis. It is caused by the swelling and inflammation of the epiglottis, which can partially obstruct the airway and create a stridor sound during breathing.
Choice B rationale:
Complete obstruction. Using a tongue depressor to examine the throat of a child with acute epiglottitis can potentially lead to a complete airway obstruction. The epiglottis, which is already swollen, can block the airway entirely, leading to respiratory distress and potentially a life-threatening situation.
Choice C rationale:
Sore throat. A sore throat is a common symptom of various respiratory tract infections, including acute epiglottitis. However, the use of a tongue depressor can worsen the swelling and potentially lead to complete airway obstruction, which is a more immediate concern.
Choice D rationale:
Respiratory tract infection. Acute epiglottitis itself is a severe respiratory tract infection, specifically involving the epiglottis. Using a tongue depressor might exacerbate the condition, leading to airway obstruction, but it is not the cause of the respiratory tract infection.