A nurse is assessing a client who is in the third trimester of pregnancy. The nurse should recognize which of the following findings as an expected physiologic change during pregnancy?
Posterior neck flexion
Increased abdominal muscle tone
Gradual lordosis
Decreased mobility of pelvic joints
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Posterior neck flexion is not an expected change during pregnancy.
Choice B: Increased abdominal muscle tone is not an expected change during pregnancy. In fact, the abdominal muscles tend to stretch and may become less toned as the uterus expands.
Choice C: During pregnancy, the woman's center of gravity shifts due to the growing uterus, leading to an increased arch in the lower back known as lordosis. This change helps to maintain balance and reduce the strain on the back. The other options are not expected physiologic changes during pregnancy.
Choice D: Decreased mobility of pelvic joints is not an expected change during pregnancy. Some joint laxity may occur due to hormonal changes, but decreased mobility is not typical.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: Late decelerations in the fetal heart rate are often associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, and one of the first interventions is to improve uterine blood flow by changing the client's position. Placing the client in a left lateral position can help relieve pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the placenta and the baby.
Choice B: Administering oxygen is a correct intervention for late decelerations, but it should follow the position change. Oxygen administration helps increase oxygen levels in the maternal blood, which can improve fetal oxygenation.
Choice C: Applying a fetal scalp electrode can provide continuous fetal heart rate monitoring, but it does not address the immediate concern of late decelerations. Position change and oxygen administration should be the priority.
Choice D: Increasing the rate of the IV infusion might not have an immediate effect on resolving late decelerations. Position change and oxygen administration should be the initial interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: While an upright position is generally beneficial during labor to improve uterine contractions and fetal positioning, it is not the priority in this situation of hypotension.
Choice B: Preparing for a cesarean birth is not indicated solely based on the blood pressure reading. Cesarean birth should be considered based on the overall assessment and clinical condition of the client and baby.
Choice C: The client's blood pressure reading of 82/52 mm Hg indicates hypotension. In this situation, the nurse should assist the client in turning onto her side to relieve pressure on the vena cava and improve blood flow to the placenta and the baby. Lying supine can compress the vena cava, leading to decreased venous return and reduced cardiac output, which may negatively affect fetal oxygenation and maternal wellbeing.
Choice D: Preparing for an immediate vaginal delivery is not the priority at this moment. The nurse should first address the hypotension and improve maternal blood flow before proceeding with delivery.
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