A nurse is preparing to administer oxytocin to a client who is postpartum. Which of the following findings is an indication for the administration of the medication? (Select all that apply.)

The correct answer is B. An excessive amount of amniotic fluid is present.

A. Polyhydramnios is primarily characterized by an increased volume of amniotic fluid, and it is not directly linked to congenital anomalies, growth restriction, or fetal distress. However, it can be associated with certain conditions that affect fetal swallowing or the production of amniotic fluid.

B. Correct. Polyhydramnios refers to an abnormal increase in the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. This condition can result from various factors, such as fetal anomalies, maternal diabetes, or gastrointestinal malformations in the fetus that affect the swallowing of amniotic fluid.

C. An elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the amniotic fluid is associated with neural

tube defects, not polyhydramnios.

D. Carrying more than one fetus (multifetal gestation) can be associated with an increased risk of polyhydramnios due to factors such as increased fetal urine production, but the presence of polyhydramnios does not necessarily indicate a multifetal pregnancy.

Choice A Reason:

"You can miss your period for several other reasons. Describe your typical menstrual cycle." This response acknowledges that a missed period can result from various factors other than pregnancy, such as stress, changes in weight, hormonal fluctuations, or certain medical conditions. Understanding the client's typical menstrual cycle can help the nurse gather more information about potential reasons for the late period.

Choice B Reason:

"If you have been sexually active and haven't used protection, it is likely that you are pregnant. “This response assumes pregnancy without exploring other possibilities or the client's individual situation.

Choice C Reason:

"Let's check to see if you have any other signs of pregnancy. Have you noticed any abdominal enlargement yet?" While considering other signs of pregnancy is reasonable, focusing on abdominal enlargement may not be the most accurate early indicator, and it's essential to explore a broader range of symptoms.

Choice D Reason:

"Because you have missed your period, you should try taking a home pregnancy test before you start worrying. "While suggesting a home pregnancy test is reasonable, it may be more beneficial to gather additional information about the client's menstrual cycle and potential symptoms before jumping directly to a test.