A client in her third trimester reports sleeping poorly: sleeping on her back results in lightheadedness and dizziness and lying on her side results in no sleep.
Which suggestion for sleeping should the nurse prioritize for this client?
with a pillow under her right hip.
Without a pillow.
With a pillow under her shoulders.
with a pillow under both hips.
The Correct Answer is A
This is a variation of the side-lying position, which is recommended for pregnant women in the third trimester to improve blood flow to the uterus and the baby12.
Sleeping on the right side with a pillow under the hip can also help relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava, a large vein that carries blood from the lower body to the heart.
Sleeping on the back can cause lightheadedness and dizziness because of this pressure, as well as increase the risk of stillbirth1.
Choice B.
Without a pillow is incorrect, as this can make sleeping on the side uncomfortable and cause back pain or leg cramps.
Choice C.
with a pillow under her shoulders is incorrect, as this can elevate the upper body and worsen heartburn, a common problem in pregnancy.
Choice D.
with a pillow under both hips is incorrect, as this can make sleeping on the back more likely, which is not advised for pregnant women in the third trimester1.
Therefore, choice A is the best answer.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Acetaminophen can be used to reduce fever during pregnancy.
Choice A is incorrect because misoprostol is not used to treat fever during labor.
Choice C is incorrect because the placement of an intrauterine pressure catheter is not used to treat fever during labor.
Choice D is incorrect because simply rechecking the client’s temperature in 2 hours does not address the issue of the client’s fever.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Placing traction weights so they touch the head of the bed disrupts the effectiveness of the traction system. Skeletal traction relies on a continuous pulling force to maintain proper alignment of the fractured femur. If the weights are resting on any surface, the force is interrupted, which can lead to complications such as malunion or delayed healing. The weights must hang freely at all times to ensure therapeutic benefit.
Choice B reason:
Isometric exercises are beneficial for maintaining muscle tone and promoting circulation during immobilization. However, while this is a supportive intervention, it is not the most critical or immediate nursing action in the context of skeletal traction. Encouraging exercises every 8 hours is appropriate, but it does not directly address the most urgent or discomfort-related aspect of care.
Choice C reason:
Pin care is a routine but potentially painful procedure associated with skeletal traction. Administering pain medication beforehand is a priority nursing action because it ensures client comfort, reduces anxiety, and promotes cooperation during the procedure. This intervention reflects both compassionate care and adherence to best practices in pain management and infection prevention.
Choice D reason:
Repositioning a client in skeletal traction must be done with extreme caution to avoid disrupting the traction setup. Assisting the client to shift position every 4 hours may inadvertently alter the alignment or tension of the traction apparatus. While pressure injury prevention is important, repositioning must be coordinated carefully and is not the most appropriate standalone action in this context.
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