A nurse in a prenatal clinic is examining the health record of a client who is 28 weeks pregnant.
The history includes one pregnancy terminated by elective abortion at 9 weeks, the birth of twins at 36 weeks, and a spontaneous abortion at 15 weeks.
According to the GTPAL system, how would you describe the client’s current status?

Choice A rationale

Moderate exercise improves circulation. This statement is accurate and should be included in the teaching. Regular moderate exercise during pregnancy can have many benefits, including improved circulation, which can help reduce swelling and varicose veins. It can also help manage weight gain, improve mood and energy levels, reduce pregnancy discomfort, prepare the body for labor, and boost stamina for labor and delivery.

Choice B rationale

Refrain from exercises that include stretching. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. Stretching exercises can be beneficial during pregnancy. They can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, alleviate pregnancy discomfort, and prevent muscle imbalances. However, pregnant women should be careful not to stretch too far, as the hormones produced during pregnancy can make the ligaments more flexible and easier to stretch, increasing the risk of injuries.

Choice C rationale

It is recommended to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. While it’s important for pregnant women to rest and avoid overexertion, there’s no specific recommendation to rest for 30 minutes before each new exercise. Instead, pregnant women should listen to their bodies and rest as needed.

Choice D rationale

It is recommended to increase your weight-bearing exercises. This statement is not accurate and should not be included in the teaching. While weight-bearing exercises can be beneficial, they should be done with caution during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid heavy weights and exercises that put pressure on the joints, increase the risk of injury, or cause discomfort. Instead, they should focus on exercises that strengthen the muscles and improve balance and flexibility.

Choice A rationale

Hypertension is the most common risk factor for placental abruption. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta partly or completely separates from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery. This can decrease or block the baby’s supply of oxygen and nutrients and cause heavy bleeding in the mother. Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) is a known risk factor for placental abruption.

Choice B rationale

While blunt force trauma can be a cause of placental abruption, it is not the most common risk factor. Trauma or injury to the abdomen can cause placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice C rationale

Cigarette smoking is a known risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.

Choice D rationale

Cocaine use is a known risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Use of cocaine during pregnancy can increase the risk of placental abruption, but hypertension is a more common risk factor.