A nurse in a prenatal clinic is conducting a skin assessment of a patient in her second trimester.
Which findings should the nurse anticipate? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale

Aspirin is not typically recommended for cramps following a D&C. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen are usually suggested for pain relief. Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, which is not desirable after a surgical procedure like a D&C2.

Choice B rationale

Products of conception will not be present in vaginal bleeding after a D&C. The purpose of a D&C is to remove tissue from the uterus, including any remaining products of conception following a miscarriage.

Choice C rationale

While a balanced diet is always important, there’s no specific recommendation for an increased intake of zinc-rich foods following a D&C. Good nutrition can support healing, but there’s no need to focus specifically on zinc.

Choice D rationale

Vaginal intercourse can be resumed after 2 weeks following a D&C. This allows time for the cervix to close and any post-procedure bleeding to stop. It’s also important to prevent infection.

Based on your last menstrual period (LMP) of May 4, 2022, your estimated date of delivery (EDD) would be around February 11, 2023."

Rationale:

• Calculating the Estimated Date of Delivery (EDD): The EDD can be calculated using Naegele's Rule, which is a standard method used to estimate the due date. The rule involves subtracting three months from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP), adding seven days, and adjusting the year if necessary.

• Application of Naegele’s Rule:

  • Start with the first day of the LMP: May 4, 2022.
  • Subtract three months: February 4, 2022.
  • Add seven days: February 11, 2022.
  • Since the year needs to be adjusted, the EDD is February 11, 2023.

Key Points:

• Naegele’s Rule is commonly used but assumes a 28-day menstrual cycle and ovulation on the 14th day. Variations in cycle length can affect the accuracy.