A nurse is assessing a newborn who is 48 hr old and has a maternal history of methadone use during pregnancy. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as an indication of neonatal abstinence syndrome?

Choice A rationale:

Increased pancreatic activity during pregnancy causing fat intolerance is not related to the cause of indigestion and heartburn. Pancreatic activity can change during pregnancy, but it does not directly impact indigestion and heartburn.

Choice B rationale:

Increased estrogen production causing more hydrochloric acid in the stomach is not the cause of indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy. While hormones can influence digestion, the mechanism for indigestion and heartburn lies elsewhere.

Choice C rationale:

Pressure from the growing uterus pushing up on the stomach and intestines is a contributing factor to indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy. However, it is not the primary cause. The main cause is related to the relaxation of the cardiac sphincter.

Choice D rationale:

Progesterone causes relaxation of the cardiac sphincter, which is a muscular valve that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. When this sphincter relaxes, it can lead to acid reflux and subsequent indigestion and heartburn during pregnancy. The nurse should educate the client about this hormonal effect to help manage these symptoms effectively.

Choice A rationale:

Continuous abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding in a client with a history of cocaine use are indicative of abruptio placentae. Abruptio placentae is a medical emergency where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, leading to severe bleeding and abdominal pain. Immediate medical intervention is necessary to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby.

Choice B rationale:

Hydatidiform mole is a gestational trophoblastic disease that occurs due to an abnormal pregnancy. It is not associated with continuous abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Instead, clients with this condition often present with vaginal bleeding and a grape-like cluster of cysts in the uterus.

Choice C rationale:

Preterm labor involves regular uterine contractions and cervical changes before 37 weeks of gestation. While preterm labor can cause abdominal discomfort, it is not usually described as continuous abdominal pain. Vaginal bleeding is not a typical symptom of preterm labor.

Choice D rationale:

Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the opening of the cervix. It can cause painless vaginal bleeding, but it is not usually associated with continuous abdominal pain. Clients with placenta previa often experience sudden, painless bleeding later in pregnancy.