A nurse is assessing a client who is at 37 weeks of gestation and reports sudden, severe abdominal pain with moderate vaginal bleeding and persistent uterine contractions.
The client's blood pressure is 88/50 mm Hg, and her abdomen is rigid.
The nurse should identify these findings as indicating which of the following complications?

Uterine rupture.

Placental abruption.

Placenta previa.

Amniotic fluid embolus.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:

Uterine rupture typically presents with intense, constant abdominal pain and signs of shock. However, the absence of visible bleeding in the abdominal cavity makes this choice less likely in this case.

Choice B rationale:

Placental abruption involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery. The sudden, severe abdominal pain, moderate vaginal bleeding, persistent uterine contractions, and signs of hypovolemic shock (low blood pressure, rigid abdomen) are indicative of placental abruption. This condition requires immediate medical intervention due to the risk of fetal and maternal compromise.

Choice C rationale:

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partially or completely covers the cervical opening. It typically presents with painless, bright red vaginal bleeding. The severe abdominal pain described in the scenario is inconsistent with placenta previa.

Choice D rationale:

Amniotic fluid embolus is a rare and life-threatening condition in which amniotic fluid enters the maternal bloodstream, causing an allergic reaction. It can lead to sudden cardiovascular collapse. Although it can cause respiratory distress and hypotension, it does not usually present with severe abdominal pain or uterine contractions.

Nursing Test Bank

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

The correct answer is B, C, and E.

A. Weight is not a correct choice because it is not a vital sign and it does not indicate an acute change in the client's condition.
B. Neuro status is a correct choice because it reflects the client's level of consciousness, orientation, memory, and cognitive function. Any alteration in neuro status could indicate a serious problem such as infection, stroke, or medication toxicity.
C. Auditory hallucinations are a correct choice because they are a symptom of psychosis and could indicate a relapse or worsening of the client's mental illness. Auditory hallucinations could also impair the client's ability to cope, communicate, and function effectively.
D. Speech is not a correct choice because it is not a vital sign and it does not indicate an acute change in the client's condition. Speech could be affected by various factors such as mood, anxiety, or medication side effects.
E. Restlessness is a correct choice because it is a sign of agitation, anxiety, or discomfort. Restlessness could also indicate an underlying physical or psychological problem such as pain, infection, or psychosis.

A. Keep the client's television on with the volume low B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to minimize interaction with the client C. Consult the provider regarding administering a mild sedative on a schedule D. Move the client to a room near the nurses' station

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Move the client to a room near the nurses' station.

A. Keep the client's television on with the volume low: This is incorrect because it does not address the client's safety or agitation. The television might also be a source of confusion or stimulation for the client.
B. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter to minimize interaction with the client: This is incorrect because it is an invasive and unnecessary procedure that increases the risk of infection and trauma. It also violates the client's dignity and autonomy.
C. Consult the provider regarding administering a mild sedative on a schedule: This is incorrect because it is not the first action to take. The nurse should first assess the client's condition and identify possible causes of disorientation and combativeness, such as pain, infection, medication side effects, or delirium. Sedatives should be used as a last resort and only with informed consent.
D. Move the client to a room near the nurses' station: This is correct because it allows for close observation and supervision of the client, which can prevent injury and promote safety. It also facilitates frequent interaction and reassurance from the staff, which can reduce anxiety and agitation.

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Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse in an outpatient mental health clinic is caring for a client. Select the 3 findings that require immediate follow-up.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

During a change-of-shift report, a night shift nurse informs the day shift nurse that a newly admitted client was disoriented and combative during the night. Which of the following actions should the day shift nurse take?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who has a magnesium level of 2.7 mEq/L. Which of the following interventions should the nurse plan to take?

A nurse is providing discharge teaching about disease management for a client who has a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following activities is the nurse's priority?

A nurse is assessing a client after administering epinephrine for an anaphylactic reaction. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of this medication?

A nurse is providing dietary teaching to a client who has a new prescription for phenelzine. Which of the following food recommendations should the nurse make? (Select all that apply.)

A nurse is caring for a client who is taking valproic acid for seizure control. For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor and report?

A nurse is planning care for a client who is at 32 weeks of gestation and has severe preeclampsia.Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

A nurse is caring for a client who is preoperative for cataract removal.Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the procedure?