A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is pregnant
The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record.
Select 4 findings that the nurse should identify as a potential prenatal complication.
Urine protein
Respiratory rate
Gravida/parity
Urine ketones
Headache
Fetal activity
Blood pressure
Correct Answer : A,E,F,G
- Urine protein: The presence of 3+ proteinuria is a significant finding suggestive of preeclampsia. Protein in the urine indicates renal involvement due to endothelial dysfunction, which is a hallmark complication in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and needs immediate attention.
- Respiratory rate: A respiratory rate of 16/min falls within the normal adult range of 12 to 20 breaths per minute. There is no evidence of respiratory distress, tachypnea, or bradypnea, so this finding does not suggest a prenatal complication.
- Gravida/parity: Although the client has a history of one preterm birth, gravida and parity alone are not indicators of a current prenatal complication. It is important background information but does not point directly to an acute complication at this time.
- Urine ketones: The absence of ketones in the urine is a normal finding. If ketones were present, it could suggest dehydration, starvation, or uncontrolled diabetes, but since they are negative, ketones are not a concern for prenatal complication here.
- Headache: A severe headache unrelieved by acetaminophen in a pregnant woman can signal worsening hypertension or preeclampsia. Persistent headaches are a concerning symptom that warrants immediate evaluation and management to prevent maternal and fetal harm.
- Fetal activity: Decreased fetal movement is a worrisome sign of possible fetal compromise, such as hypoxia or placental insufficiency. Reduced movements require further fetal assessment and monitoring to ensure fetal well-being.
- Blood pressure: A blood pressure reading of 162/112 mm Hg is severely elevated and meets the diagnostic criteria for severe preeclampsia. Uncontrolled hypertension during pregnancy places both the mother and fetus at significant risk for serious complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Cantaloupe: Cantaloupe is considered high in potassium, with about 430 mg of potassium per cup. This makes it unsuitable for a client needing a low-potassium diet, as it can significantly contribute to elevated potassium levels.
B. Sweet potato: Sweet potatoes are very high in potassium, containing around 540 mg of potassium per half-cup serving. They are not recommended for individuals trying to manage or lower their potassium intake.
C. Orange juice: Orange juice provides approximately 500 mg of potassium per 1-cup serving. It is commonly avoided or limited in potassium-restricted diets due to its significant contribution to total potassium intake.
D. Wheat bread: Wheat bread contains a relatively low amount of potassium, about 60 to 70 mg per slice. Compared to the other options listed, wheat bread is much lower in potassium and is a better choice for clients who need to restrict potassium in their diet.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Anorexia: Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is not a typical adverse effect directly associated with heparin use. While it may occur due to general postoperative factors, it is not an urgent or life-threatening reaction that necessitates immediate reporting related to anticoagulant therapy.
B. Epistaxis: Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is a sign of potential bleeding complications, which is a major adverse effect of heparin. Because heparin inhibits clot formation, any evidence of spontaneous bleeding must be reported immediately to the provider to assess for potential heparin-induced bleeding disorders.
C. Weight gain: Weight gain could suggest fluid retention, but it is not a typical adverse effect of heparin. While postoperative clients should be monitored for signs of fluid imbalance, sudden bleeding signs like epistaxis are far more critical to recognize and report when administering anticoagulants.
D. Bradycardia: Bradycardia, or slow heart rate, is not commonly linked to heparin therapy. While abnormal heart rhythms may occur postoperatively for other reasons, they are not typically associated with bleeding risks from heparin and thus do not require urgent reporting specific to heparin use.
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