What is the most crucial assessment for the nurse to perform after administering epidural anesthesia to a patient who is at 40 weeks gestation?

Choice A rationale

Iron-deficiency anemia is a common nutritional issue among pregnant teenagers. During pregnancy, the body needs more iron to support the growth and development of the fetus. Teenagers, who are still growing themselves, may already have lower iron stores. Therefore, it is crucial to include information about the importance of iron and how to get enough from the diet in a nutrition education program for pregnant teenagers.

Choice B rationale

While gestational diabetes is a concern during pregnancy, it is not the most crucial topic for a nutrition education program specifically for pregnant teenagers. Gestational diabetes is a condition that can develop during pregnancy in women who don’t already have diabetes. It’s not as common in teenagers as it is in older women.

Choice C rationale

High cholesterol is generally not a primary concern during pregnancy. In fact, it’s normal for cholesterol levels to rise during pregnancy. However, long-term high cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.

Choice D rationale

Excessive weight gain can be a concern during pregnancy, but it is not the most crucial topic for a nutrition education program for pregnant teenagers. It’s normal and healthy to gain weight during pregnancy, but the amount should be carefully monitored. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

Choice A rationale

A client who is 3 weeks postpartum and feeling tired all the time is a common scenario. Adjusting to a new baby can be challenging and it’s normal for new mothers to feel overwhelmed and fatigued. The nurse’s response should be empathetic and supportive,

encouraging the client to share more about her situation. This could help the nurse understand the client’s support system and provide appropriate advice or resources.

Choice B rationale

While it’s important to ensure that the client isn’t overexerting herself with chores, suggesting that she shouldn’t be doing any at all might not be practical or feasible. The presence and involvement of family members can vary greatly, and while their help can be beneficial, it’s not the only factor in managing postpartum fatigue.

Choice C rationale

It’s indeed common for new mothers to feel worn out for the first few months. However, simply advising the client to rest when the baby is sleeping might not address the root cause of her fatigue. It’s also important to consider other factors such as nutrition, emotional well- being, and available support.

Choice D rationale

Telling the client that it’s normal to feel fatigued for the first few weeks might minimize her feelings. Each person’s postpartum experience is unique, and it’s crucial to validate her feelings and provide individualized care.