Which of the following is the priority nursing action for a client at 33 weeks of gestation with a diagnosis of placenta previa?
Insert an IV catheter.
Monitor vaginal bleeding.
Apply an external fetal monitor.
Administer glucocorticoids.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Inserting an IV catheter is a standard procedure in many hospital admissions and can be necessary for administering medications and fluids. However, it is not the immediate priority in the case of placenta previa. Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, and the main risk associated with it is bleeding.
Choice B reason:
Monitoring vaginal bleeding is the priority nursing action for a client with placenta previa. This condition can lead to significant bleeding, which can be life-threatening for both the mother and the fetus. The nurse must assess the amount, color, and duration of any bleeding to make timely decisions regarding the need for further medical intervention or potential delivery if the bleeding is severe.
Choice C reason:
Applying an external fetal monitor is important to assess the fetus's well-being, especially if there is vaginal bleeding or other complications. However, it is not the first action to take. The immediate concern with placenta previa is the risk of hemorrhage, which can compromise the oxygen supply to the fetus, making monitoring maternal bleeding a higher priority.
Choice D reason:
Administering glucocorticoids may be indicated to accelerate fetal lung maturity if preterm delivery is anticipated. While this is an important consideration in the management of placenta previa, especially if there is a risk of preterm birth, it is not the first line of action. The initial focus should be on assessing and controlling any bleeding to stabilize the mother's condition.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Washing the perineal area using a squeeze bottle of warm water after each voiding is a recommended practice to reduce the risk of infection. This method gently cleanses without causing irritation and ensures that any bacteria are washed away, which is particularly important after a vaginal delivery when the perineal tissue may be more susceptible to infection.
Choice b reason:
Applying ice packs to the perineal area several times daily can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief, but it is not directly related to reducing the risk of infection. Ice packs should be used as part of pain management and swelling reduction rather than for hygiene purposes.
Choice c reason:
Blotting the perineal area dry after cleansing is important to maintain the integrity of the skin and prevent moisture buildup, which can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Patting the area dry gently can help prevent irritation and reduce the risk of infection.
Choice d reason:
Cleaning the perineal area from front to back is a critical practice to prevent the spread of bacteria from the anal area to the vagina and urethra, which can cause urinary tract infections. This technique is especially important postpartum when the perineal area is healing.
Choice e reason:
Performing hand hygiene before and after voiding is a fundamental practice to prevent the introduction of pathogens to the perineal area and reduce the risk of infection. Proper handwashing can significantly decrease the likelihood of perineal infections by ensuring that the hands are clean when they come into contact with sensitive areas.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Iron is not poorly absorbed in infants; in fact, infants absorb iron quite efficiently. Breast milk contains a small amount of iron, but it is highly bioavailable and well-absorbed. When switching to formula, it is important to use iron-fortified options to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Choice B Reason:
While iron is essential for overall growth and development, including bone growth, it is not the primary reason for emphasizing iron in infant nutrition. The key concern with iron, especially when transitioning from breastfeeding, is the prevention of iron deficiency anemia, which can affect cognitive and motor development.
Choice C Reason:
This is the correct information to include in the teaching. Infants are born with a reserve of iron that begins to deplete around 4 to 6 months of age. It is crucial to introduce iron-fortified formula at this time to ensure the infant continues to receive adequate iron for development and to prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Choice D Reason:
Iron does play a role in the development of the nervous system, which can indirectly affect vision, but it is not specifically known for facilitating the development of vision in infants. The primary concern with iron intake in infants relates to its role in preventing anemia and supporting overall growth and development.
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