A nurse is caring for a client who has hyperemesis gravidarum. The nurse should identify that the client is at risk for which of the following conditions?
Elevated blood pressure
Leukopenia
Hydramnios
Ketonuria
The Correct Answer is C
A. Elevated blood pressure is typically associated with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia rather than hyperemesis gravidarum. In hyperemesis, the significant fluid loss through protracted vomiting more commonly leads to hypovolemia and a subsequent decrease in systemic blood pressure. While compensatory tachycardia may occur, hypertension is not a direct scientific expectation for this clinical condition.
B. Leukopenia, which is a decrease in the white blood cell count, is not a typical finding in clients suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum. Hemoconcentration caused by severe dehydration may actually result in a relative increase in various laboratory values, including hematocrit and occasionally white cell counts. There is no physiological mechanism within this disorder that causes the bone marrow suppression required for leukopenia.
C. Hydramnios, or excessive amniotic fluid volume, is generally associated with fetal anomalies or maternal diabetes rather than severe vomiting. Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by a state of maternal fluid volume deficit rather than an excess of amniotic fluid. In severe, untreated cases, maternal dehydration might actually lead to decreased placental perfusion and a potential reduction in amniotic fluid.
D. Ketonuria is a critical finding in hyperemesis gravidarum that indicates the body has shifted to an anaerobic metabolic state. Because the client cannot retain sufficient carbohydrates for energy, the body begins catabolizing adipose tissue to produce fuel, resulting in the accumulation of ketone bodies. The presence of these ketones in the urine confirms that the client is experiencing metabolic starvation and requires immediate intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct - Keeping the car seat rear-facing is recommended until your baby reaches the age of 2 or the weight and height limits specified by the car seat manufacturer. This is to provide maximum protection to the baby's developing head and neck.
B) Incorrect- Placing the shoulder harness at the level of the baby's shoulders is important, but the rear-facing position is a higher priority.
C) Incorrect- The retainer clip should be positioned at the level of the baby's armpits to ensure proper placement of the harness straps.
D) Incorrect- The angle of recline is important to prevent the baby's head from flopping forward, but the rear-facing position itself is more crucial.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Incorrect- A reddened area on the calf might indicate a potential blood clot (deep vein thrombosis), which is important to assess but may not be the highest priority.
B) Incorrect- Painful uterine contractions during breastfeeding can be a normal response due to oxytocin release during breastfeeding and might not require immediate reporting.
C) Correct - A urinary output of 125 mL in 4 hours is significantly low and could indicate inadequate fluid intake, potential urinary retention, or other issues that need prompt attention. It is a sign of impaired renal function. This could indicate dehydration, blood loss, infection, or kidney injury. The nurse should assess the client's fluid intake and output, vital signs, urine specific gravity, and serum electrolyte levels. The nurse should also monitor the client for signs of hypovolemia, such as tachycardia, hypotension, and decreased skin turgor.
D) Incorrect- Changing a perineal pad every 2 hours is within the normal range for postpartum bleeding and might not require immediate reporting.
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