A nurse is admitting a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and has severe gestational hypertension. Which of the following actions should the nurse expect to implement? (Select all that apply.)
Provide a dark, quiet environment.
Evaluate neurologic status every 12 hr.
Assess respiratory status every 8 hr.
Ensure that calcium gluconate is readily available.
Administer magnesium sulfate IV.
Correct Answer : A,D,E
Choice A reason: Providing a dark, quiet environment is an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it can help reduce the client's blood pressure and prevent seizures.
Choice B reason: Evaluating neurologic status every 12 hr is not an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is not frequent enough. The nurse should assess the client's neurologic status every 2 to 4 hr, or more often if indicated, to detect signs of cerebral edema or eclampsia.
Choice C reason: Assessing respiratory status every 8 hr is not an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is not frequent enough. The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory status every 1 to 2 hr, or more often if indicated, to detect signs of pulmonary edema or respiratory depression.
Choice D reason: Ensuring that calcium gluconate is readily available is an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. The nurse should have calcium gluconate on hand and know how to administer it in case of an emergency.
Choice E reason: Administering magnesium sulfate IV is an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is the drug of choice for preventing and treating seizures in clients with severe gestational hypertension. The nurse should follow the protocol for magnesium sulfate administration and monitor the client's vital signs, urine output, reflexes, and serum magnesium levels.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Obtaining a type and crossmatch is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a preparatory step for blood transfusion, which may or may not be needed. The nurse should first identify the cause and severity of the hypotension, and initiate immediate interventions to stop the bleeding and restore the circulation.
Choice B reason: Administering oxytocin infusion is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a pharmacological intervention that requires a prescription and an assessment of the uterine tone and bleeding. The nurse should first evaluate the firmness of the uterus and massage it if needed, to stimulate the contraction and retraction of the uterine muscle.
Choice C reason: Initiating oxygen therapy by nonrebreather mask is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a supportive intervention that aims to improve the oxygen delivery to the tissues and organs. The nurse should first address the underlying cause of the hypotension, which is most likely postpartum hemorrhage, and prevent further blood loss and shock.
Choice D reason: Evaluating the firmness of the uterus is the first action that the nurse should take, as it can help determine the source and extent of the bleeding, and guide the subsequent interventions. The nurse should palpate the fundus and check the lochia, and report any signs of uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Contractions lasting longer than 90 seconds: Prolonged contractions lasting longer than 90 seconds may indicate uterine hyperstimulation, which can compromise fetal oxygenation and lead to fetal distress. This finding should be reported to the provider promptly for further evaluation and management.
B. Client reports feeling contractions in the lower back: This is a common sensation during labor and may not necessarily indicate a complication. However, if associated with other signs of fetal distress, it should be reported.
C. Contractions occurring every 3 to 5 minutes: This frequency is within the normal range for the active phase of labor and does not necessarily indicate a problem. However, it is essential to consider the duration and intensity of contractions along with this frequency.
D. Contractions are strong in intensity: While strong contractions are typical during the active phase of labor, the intensity alone may not be a cause for concern unless they are associated with uterine hyperstimulation.
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