A client who was a victim of a rape and was confirmed HIV positive six months ago arrives at the clinic for an appointment.

The client is thin, with a saddened affect and talks about frequently crying and feeling hopeless.

The client describes not wanting to see anyone or go out of the house.

Which action should the nurse take?

Complete the sentence: The nurse teaches the client about the fetus's reaction to labor by explaining that early decelerations indicate head compression and assessing fetal heart rate patterns before, during, and after contractions.

Rationale for correct answer: Explaining that early decelerations indicate head compression is correct because early decelerations are typically associated with head compression during contractions. This is a common finding during labor and usually not a sign of fetal distress. It indicates that the fetus is descending through the birth canal, causing temporary compression of the fetal head, which leads to a brief decrease in heart rate.

Assessing fetal heart rate patterns before, during, and after contractions is correct because it provides a comprehensive understanding of how the fetus responds to labor. Monitoring the fetal heart rate throughout the contraction cycle helps identify patterns of variability, decelerations, and accelerations, ensuring that the fetus is tolerating labor well.

Rationale for incorrect answers: Choice A rationale: Identifying early decelerations as a sign of fetal distress is incorrect because early decelerations are generally benign and related to head compression. They are not typically a sign of fetal distress. Late or variable decelerations are more concerning and may indicate fetal distress.

Choice C rationale: Stating that early decelerations require immediate intervention is incorrect because early decelerations do not usually require immediate intervention. They are a normal finding during labor caused by head compression. Interventions are necessary for late or variable decelerations, which indicate possible fetal compromise.

Choice D rationale: Noting that early decelerations suggest umbilical cord compression is incorrect because early decelerations are not typically associated with umbilical cord compression. Variable decelerations are more likely to indicate cord compression, requiring closer monitoring and possible intervention.

Choice A rationale

Paresthesia, or abnormal sensations such as tingling or numbness, is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) due to the demyelination of nerve fibers in the central nervous system. While it can be bothersome for the client, it is not typically an immediate life-threatening condition that requires urgent reporting to the healthcare provider. Ongoing management and monitoring of symptoms are important, but paresthesia alone does not necessitate immediate medical intervention.

Choice B rationale

Tremors are another common manifestation of MS, resulting from nerve damage that affects motor pathways. Tremors can significantly impact the client's quality of life, making daily activities challenging. However, like paresthesia, tremors are not usually considered an urgent condition that needs immediate reporting. They should be managed through a comprehensive care plan involving medications and physical therapy.

Choice C rationale

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can occur in individuals with MS due to demyelination affecting the auditory pathways. While tinnitus can be distressing and affect the client's hearing, it is not typically an immediate life-threatening condition. It may require evaluation and symptomatic management, but it does not require urgent reporting unless it is associated with other severe symptoms.

Choice D rationale

Fever in a client with MS could indicate an infection or other inflammatory process, which can exacerbate MS symptoms and lead to a relapse. Fever may also signal a secondary complication such as a urinary tract infection or respiratory infection, which requires prompt medical attention. The healthcare provider should be notified immediately to evaluate and manage the underlying cause of the fever.

Choice E rationale

Tachycardia, or an abnormally rapid heart rate, can be a sign of several serious conditions, including infection, dehydration, or cardiovascular problems. In clients with MS, tachycardia may also indicate an autonomic dysfunction or be a response to fever or other stressors. Immediate reporting to the healthcare provider is necessary to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment to prevent complications.