A mother expresses fear about changing her infant's diaper after he is circumcised with a clamp procedure.
What does the woman need to be taught to take care of the infant when she gets home?

The nurse should anticipate a provider prescription for pyridoxine due to the client’s severe dehydration.

Rationale for correct answers

Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is recommended for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP), commonly known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), especially in patients with persistent symptoms leading to dehydration. Severe dehydration is confirmed by elevated urine specific gravity (normal: 1.002–1.030), low sodium (normal: 135–145 mEq/L), and positive ketones, indicating excessive vomiting and malnutrition.

Rationale for incorrect Response 1 options

• Antibiotics: There is no evidence of infection; urinalysis and WBC count are within normal limits.
• Magnesium sulfate: Used for eclampsia or preterm labor prevention, not for HG.
• Oxytocin: Stimulates uterine contractions and is contraindicated during early pregnancy unless labor induction is required.

Rationale for incorrect Response 2 options

• Urinary tract infection: No leukocytes or nitrites in urine, and WBC count is normal (4,500–11,000/mm³).
• Preeclampsia: No proteinuria or hypertension (≥140/90 mm Hg).
• Preterm labor: No uterine contractions or cervical changes.

Choice A rationale

Thoroughly cooking meat to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) kills the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, thus preventing transmission. This is a recommended measure to prevent toxoplasmosis during pregnancy.

Choice B rationale

Drinking unpasteurized milk poses a risk of exposure to various pathogens, including Toxoplasma gondii, as pasteurization is a process that kills harmful microorganisms. Pregnant women should avoid unpasteurized dairy products to reduce the risk of infection. This statement indicates a need for further instruction as it suggests an unsafe practice.

Choice C rationale

Cat feces can contain oocysts of Toxoplasma gondii. Avoiding contact with materials potentially contaminated with cat feces, such as litter boxes or garden soil, is a crucial measure to prevent toxoplasmosis.

Choice D rationale

Raw meat can be contaminated with Toxoplasma gondii. Avoiding touching mucous membranes of the mouth or eyes while handling raw meat and washing hands thoroughly afterwards prevents the parasite from entering the body. This is a recommended preventive measure.