A client at 18-weeks gestation was informed this morning that she has an elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. After the healthcare provider leaves the room, the client asks what she should do next. What information should the nurse provide?
Discuss options for intrauterine surgical correction of congenital defects.
Inform her that a repeat alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) should be evaluated.
Reassure the client that the AFP results are likely to be a false reading.
Explain that a sonogram should be scheduled for definitive results
The Correct Answer is B
Discuss options for intrauterine surgical correction of congenital defects:
This choice might be premature as an initial response. An elevated AFP level doesn't definitively indicate congenital defects but can suggest the possibility of certain conditions. Surgical correction would not be the immediate next step.
Inform her that a repeat alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) should be evaluated:
This is a reasonable step. An elevated AFP level might not always indicate a problem, as false positives can occur. A repeat AFP test can help confirm the accuracy of the initial result before further steps are taken.
Reassure the client that the AFP results are likely to be a false reading:
Providing false reassurance may lead to misunderstandings. While false positives can happen, it's crucial to follow up with further assessments to ensure the accuracy of the results.
Explain that a sonogram should be scheduled for definitive results:
A sonogram (ultrasound) can provide additional information and is often used in conjunction with AFP testing to assess fetal development and detect possible abnormalities. However, it might not be the immediate next step after an elevated AFP level. Repeating the AFP test might be the initial course of action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Obtain a drug screen for cocaine: Given the symptoms described (tremulous, tachycardic, hypertensive), there may be concern about drug exposure, and cocaine is a substance known to cause such symptoms in newborns. Therefore, obtaining a drug screen for cocaine is a reasonable and important action to determine if there was prenatal exposure.
B. Weigh and measure the newborn: While weighing and measuring the newborn is a routine part of the newborn assessment, it may not be the most crucial action in this context. The symptoms described suggest the need for a more immediate assessment related to possible drug exposure.
C. Determine reactivity of neonatal reflexes: Assessing the reactivity of neonatal reflexes is an important part of the newborn assessment, but in this specific situation, the symptoms described (tremulous, tachycardic, hypertensive) may warrant a more focused and immediate assessment related to drug exposure.
D. Perform gestational age assessment: Gestational age assessment is essential for understanding the newborn's maturity and adjusting care accordingly. However, in this scenario, the immediate concern seems to be the symptoms the newborn is presenting with, and addressing the possibility of drug exposure takes precedence.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Provide information about the high-risk nature of her pregnancy:
While it is true that pregnancies after organ transplantation are considered high-risk due to potential complications, the initial recommendation often involves waiting for a specified period.
B. Explain the benefits of a five-year post-transplant waiting period
After a liver transplant, healthcare providers typically recommend waiting for a certain period before attempting pregnancy. This waiting period allows the individual's health to stabilize, and it ensures that the transplanted organ is functioning optimally. Pregnancy, being a physiological stressor, can pose additional challenges to individuals with transplants. Waiting for a few years post-transplant is a precautionary measure to minimize potential risks.
C. Gently remind the client that anti-rejection drugs cause sterility:
This statement is not accurate. Anti-rejection drugs can affect fertility, but they do not cause sterility. The discussion should focus on the potential risks and safety considerations for pregnancy after a liver transplant.
D. Determine if the client is considering options for adopting a child:
While adoption might be an option, the primary intervention should involve discussing the waiting period and potential risks associated with pregnancy after a liver transplant.
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