A client at 32 weeks of gestation is diagnosed with pre-term labor.
Which intervention should the nurse prioritize to reduce uterine activity?
Administering intravenous fluids
Administering tocolytics
Administering corticosteroids
Administering antibiotics
The Correct Answer is B
Administering tocolytics. Tocolytics are drugs that inhibit uterine contractions and can delay preterm labor for a short time. This can allow time for the administration of corticosteroids and transfer to a tertiary care facility if necessary.
Choice A is wrong because administering intravenous fluids does not reduce uterine activity. It may be used to correct dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, which can be risk factors for preterm labor.
Choice C is wrong because administering corticosteroids does not reduce uterine activity. It may be used to enhance fetal lung maturity and reduce the risk of neonatal complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, intracranial hemorrhage, and necrotizing enterocolitis.
Choice D is wrong because administering antibiotics does not reduce uterine activity. It may be used to treat infections that can trigger preterm labor, such as bacterial vaginosis or chorioamnionitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A positive fetal fibronectin test (FFN) indicates that the fetal membrane has been disrupted and labor may occur within the next 7 to 14 days.
This is a sign of preterm labor that should be reported immediately.
Choice A is wrong because elevated blood glucose level is not a sign of preterm labor, but a possible complication of gestational diabetes.
Choice B is wrong because thinning of the cervix (also called effacement) is a normal process that occurs during late pregnancy and labor.
It does not necessarily indicate preterm labor.
Choice D is wrong because abdominal tenderness is not a specific sign of preterm labor.
It could be caused by other factors such as constipation, gas, or stretching of the ligaments.
Some of the signs and symptoms of preterm labor include:
• Regular or frequent sensations of abdominal tightening (contractions) every 10 minutes or more often
• Change in vaginal discharge (leaking fluid or bleeding from the vagina)
• Feeling of pressure in the pelvis (hip) area
• Low, dull backache
• Cramps that feel like menstrual cramps
• Abdominal cramps with or without diarrhea
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Mild lower abdominal cramping is a sign of preterm laborand should be prioritized as a potential complication.Preterm labor occurs when regular contractions begin to open your cervix before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
A full-term pregnancy should last about 40 weeks.
Choice B is wrong because a change in vaginal discharge color is not a specific sign of preterm labor.
It could be due to other factors such as infection or normal hormonal changes.
Choice C is wrong because a brief episode of low back pain is not a sign of preterm labor.
It could be due to posture, muscle strain or other causes.
Choice D is wrong because occasional fetal hiccups are not a sign of preterm labor.
They are normal movements of the fetus and do not indicate any distress or danger.
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