A nurse is caring for a client who has a positive pregnancy test.
The nurse is teaching the client about common discomforts in the first trimester of pregnancy as well as warning signs of potential danger.
The nurse should instruct the client to call the clinic if she experiences which of the following manifestations?

Choice A rationale

Instructing the client to avoid alcohol for 72 hr after treatment is a common instruction given when a client is prescribed certain medications, such as metronidazole, due to the potential for a disulfiram-like reaction. However, this choice does not directly address the client’s symptoms of vaginal itching and discharge.

Choice B rationale

The client’s symptoms are indicative of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age. Metronidazole is a medication commonly used to treat this infection. A single dose of 2 g orally is a typical treatment regimen.

Choice C rationale

An oatmeal sitz bath can help soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation, but it does not treat the underlying cause of the client’s symptoms.

Choice D rationale

Douching is generally not recommended as it can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina and can lead to further complications.

Choice E rationale

Recommending the client’s partner receive treatment is important in cases of sexually transmitted infections to prevent reinfection. However, this choice does not directly address the client’s immediate need for treatment.

Choice A rationale

While it’s important for the nurse to provide reassurance and support during the exam, this statement alone doesn’t address the client’s specific concerns or provide any useful information.

Choice B rationale

Telling the client to relax doesn’t address her concerns or provide any useful information. It’s normal to feel nervous before a pelvic exam, especially if it’s the first one.

Choice C rationale

Asking the client what part of the exam makes her most nervous allows the nurse to provide specific information and reassurance, which can help alleviate the client’s anxiety.

Choice D rationale

While a pelvic exam is often part of the process when starting oral contraceptives, it’s not always required. The need for a pelvic exam can depend on the client’s age, sexual history, and other factors.