A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hours postpartum. The client is Rh-negative and her newborn is Rh-positive. The client asks why an indirect Coombs test was ordered by the provider. Which of the following is an appropriate response by the nurse?
"It detects positive antibodies in the mother's blood."
"It detects Rh-negative antibodies in the newborn's blood."
"It determines if kernicterus will occur in the newborn."
"It determines the presence of maternal antibodies in the newborn's blood."
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: The indirect Coombs test is used to screen for antibodies in the mother's blood that could potentially cause hemolytic disease in the newborn if they are Rh-positive. A positive result indicates that the mother has developed antibodies that could cross the placenta and attack the red blood cells of an Rh-positive fetus.
Choice B reason: The indirect Coombs test does not detect Rh-negative antibodies in the newborn's blood. Instead, it is used to detect antibodies in the mother's blood. The direct Coombs test is used to detect antibodies that are already attached to the red blood cells of the newborn.
Choice C reason: The indirect Coombs test does not determine if kernicterus will occur in the newborn. Kernicterus is a form of brain damage that can result from very high levels of bilirubin in a baby's blood. It is not directly related to the presence of antibodies detected by the indirect Coombs test.
Choice D reason: The indirect Coombs test does not determine the presence of maternal antibodies in the newborn's blood. This is assessed by the direct Coombs test, which checks for antibodies bound to the surface of the newborn's red blood cells, indicating that the immune system is attacking them.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While vaginal bleeding can be associated with ectopic pregnancy, it is not typically characterized by a large amount. The bleeding is often described as spotting or light bleeding. A large amount of vaginal bleeding is more indicative of other conditions, such as a miscarriage or placental issues.
Choice B reason:
Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain is one of the hallmark signs of an ectopic pregnancy. This pain is usually felt on one side of the abdomen and can vary from mild to severe. It occurs due to the embryo implanting outside the uterus, most commonly in one of the fallopian tubes, which can cause irritation and discomfort as it grows.
Choice C reason:
Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age is not a symptom of ectopic pregnancy. In fact, the uterus may not enlarge as much as expected because the embryo is not growing inside it. Ectopic pregnancies are often associated with a smaller-than-expected uterus for the gestational age.
Choice D reason:
Severe nausea and vomiting are not specific to ectopic pregnancy and can occur with any pregnancy. However, if these symptoms are accompanied by other signs of ectopic pregnancy, such as abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, they may support the diagnosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Panting can help control the urge to push and is often recommended during the crowning stage to prevent tearing and to allow the perineum to stretch gradually. It can also help manage the pain and provide the baby with a gentle descent.
Choice b reason:
Slow-paced breathing is generally advised during the earlier stages of labor to help manage contractions and maintain relaxation. However, during the crowning stage, slow-paced breathing might not be effective in controlling the strong urge to push.
Choice c reason:
Telling the client to go ahead and push without proper guidance could lead to rapid delivery, which increases the risk of perineal tearing. The nurse should instruct the client on when and how to push effectively, often during a contraction, with controlled effort.
Choice d reason:
Taking a deep, cleansing breath can be calming and help the client focus, but it does not directly address the immediate need to control the pushing during crowning. Controlled breathing techniques specific to the delivery stage are more appropriate.
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