The nurse is caring for a primigravida client who delivered vaginally 48-hours ago.The client's laboratory results are: hemoglobin 12 g/dL (125 g/L), hematocrit 34% (0.34 volume fraction), hepatitis B surface antigen negative, rubella non-immune, group B Streptococcus negative. Which prescription should the nurse prepare to administer?

Choice A rationale

Group therapy can be beneficial for individuals with substance abuse issues as it provides support, reduces isolation, and promotes healthy coping mechanisms. However, it is not the primary intervention for ensuring the health of the baby in a pregnant client on methadone.

Choice B rationale

Discontinuing methadone abruptly is dangerous and can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can harm both the mother and the fetus. It is important to continue methadone treatment under medical supervision to prevent complications.

Choice C rationale

Genetic testing protocols are important for identifying potential genetic disorders but do not directly address the immediate health needs of a baby born to a mother on methadone treatment.

Choice D rationale

Starting a prenatal care plan as soon as possible is crucial for monitoring the health and development of the fetus, managing the mother's methadone treatment, and providing necessary interventions to ensure the baby's well-being. It is the best approach to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Choice A rationale

A weight gain of 2 pounds (0.91 kg) in a 34-week gestation multigravida is generally considered normal. During the third trimester, it is typical for a pregnant woman to gain around 0.5 to 1 pound per week. This weight gain helps support the growing fetus and prepare the mother's body for labor and breastfeeding. However, sudden or excessive weight gain could indicate fluid retention or preeclampsia, but a 2-pound gain alone is not necessarily a concern.

Choice B rationale

1+ edema on the lower extremities is a common finding during pregnancy, especially in the later stages. It is usually due to increased blood volume and pressure on the pelvic veins from the growing uterus, which can slow the return of blood from the legs. While some degree of edema is normal, particularly in the ankles and feet, it is important to monitor for sudden or severe swelling, which could be a sign of preeclampsia.

Choice C rationale

A fundal height of 30 cm at 34 weeks gestation is concerning because it is less than the expected measurement. Fundal height typically corresponds to gestational age in centimeters (±2 cm). Therefore, at 34 weeks, the expected fundal height would be between 32 and 36 cm. A smaller fundal height could indicate intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), oligohydramnios, or other fetal development issues, which require further evaluation by the healthcare provider.

Choice D rationale

A fetal heart rate (FHR) of 110 beats per minute (bpm) is within the normal range for a fetus. The normal FHR typically ranges from 110 to 160 bpm. Although 110 bpm is on the lower end of the normal range, it is still considered acceptable. Significant deviations from the normal range, either too low (bradycardia) or too high (tachycardia), could indicate fetal distress and require immediate attention.