Which of the following is the most accurate statement that defines uterine tachysystole during labor and describes the initial intervention?

Choice A rationale

Dismissing a client's concerns, even if they are common during pregnancy, is a form of invalidation that can undermine the therapeutic relationship and reduce the client's willingness to communicate. This approach fails to address the client's psychosocial needs and can exacerbate feelings of anxiety or isolation. It is important to validate feelings to build trust and provide holistic care.

Choice B rationale

While some women do regain their pre-pregnancy body shape, making a generalized statement like "most women return to normal by 6 months" is not only inaccurate but can also set an unrealistic expectation. Postpartum body changes vary significantly among individuals, and this statement can lead to disappointment and body image dissatisfaction if the client does not meet this timeline.

Choice C rationale

Stretch marks, or striae gravidarum, result from the stretching and tearing of the dermis, the layer of skin beneath the epidermis. This is a physiological response to rapid skin expansion during pregnancy. The application of topical lotions or creams, while helpful for moisturizing and reducing itching, has not been scientifically proven to prevent the formation of stretch marks.

Choice D rationale

Acknowledging a client's body image concerns validates their feelings and demonstrates empathy, which is crucial for building a trusting nurse-client relationship. By encouraging sharing, the nurse provides a safe space for the client to express her anxieties, enabling a more accurate assessment of her psychosocial needs and concerns related to pregnancy.

Choice E rationale

Referring the client to counseling resources is an appropriate intervention for significant body image concerns, especially if they are leading to distress or impacting her psychological well-being. This provides access to specialized support from mental health professionals who can offer strategies to cope with body changes and promote a positive self-perception during pregnancy.

Choice A rationale

This choice is incorrect because a normal weight woman should gain 1 pound per week in the second and third trimester and 2 to 4 pounds in the first trimester. The total weight gain should be between 25 and 35 pounds. The weight gain of 5-10 pounds in the second and third trimesters is too low.

Choice B rationale

This is an incorrect recommendation because a pregnant woman with a normal BMI should gain an average of 1 pound per week during the second and third trimesters. The total weight gain should be 25 to 35 pounds. In the first trimester, the average weight gain is 2 to 4 pounds, which is a significant difference.

Choice C rationale

This choice is the most correct. The standard recommendation for weight gain for a pregnant woman with a normal BMI (18.5-24.9) is a total of 25 to 35 pounds. This is distributed as a gain of 2 to 4 pounds during the first trimester, followed by a gain of approximately 1 pound per week during the second and third trimesters.

Choice D rationale

Even if a client has lost weight, there is still a recommendation for weight gain during the pregnancy. The standard recommendation for weight gain for a pregnant woman with a normal BMI is 25 to 35 pounds. The client's nutritional status should be assessed, and a plan should be implemented to ensure adequate weight gain for the health of the mother and fetus