A charge nurse is observing a newly licensed nurse provide care for a client who is postoperative.

The newly licensed nurse tells the client that she will insert a urinary catheter if the client will not void.

Which of the following torts should the charge nurse identify as having occurred?

Choice A rationale:

Upper extremity hypotension is not a common finding in coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta typically results in narrowing of the aorta, leading to decreased blood flow to the lower part of the body. This can cause weak or absent femoral pulses and lower extremity hypotension, not upper extremity hypotension.

Choice B rationale:

Frequent nosebleeds are not directly associated with coarctation of the aorta. The symptoms of coarctation of the aorta are primarily related to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to symptoms such as weak femoral pulses, lower extremity hypotension, and leg cramping or pain.

Choice D rationale:

Increased intracranial pressure is not a typical finding in coarctation of the aorta. Coarctation of the aorta affects blood flow to the lower part of the body and does not directly impact intracranial pressure.

The correct answers are Choices A, C, D, E, F, and G.

Choice A rationale: Antihypertensive medication is indicated due to sustained elevated BP (≥160/110 mm Hg), which increases risk for stroke, placental abruption, and eclampsia. Prompt control reduces maternal and fetal morbidity.

Choice B rationale: Routine vaginal exams are contraindicated unless signs of labor are present. Frequent exams increase infection risk and are not part of standard care for hypertensive or preeclamptic clients.

Choice C rationale: A low-stimulation environment (dim lights, quiet room) reduces CNS irritability and seizure risk in preeclampsia. It supports neuroprotection and aligns with seizure precaution protocols.

Choice D rationale: Betamethasone promotes fetal lung maturity in preterm gestation when delivery is likely. It reduces neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and improves outcomes in hypertensive pregnancies.

Choice E rationale: A 24-hour urine specimen quantifies proteinuria, essential for diagnosing preeclampsia severity. Protein 3+ on dipstick warrants confirmation via timed collection for accurate staging.

Choice F rationale: Hourly intake and output monitoring detects fluid shifts, renal compromise, and early signs of pulmonary edema. It’s critical in hypertensive disorders to guide fluid management.

Choice G rationale: Bed rest minimizes physical stress, stabilizes BP, and reduces risk of placental disruption. Left lateral positioning enhances uteroplacental perfusion and supports fetal oxygenation.