A nurse is caring for a client who is at 12 weeks of gestation and has hyperemesis gravidarum.
The nurse is assessing the client 24 hr later. How should the nurse interpret the findings?
For each finding click to specify whether the finding is unrelated to the diagnosis, a sign of potential improvement, or a sign of potential worsening condition.
Urinary output 40 ml/hr
3+ ketones
Heart rate 100/min
WBC count 10000/mm3
Urine specific gravity 1050
Urine pH 5
The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"C"},"B":{"answers":"C"},"C":{"answers":"B"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"C"},"F":{"answers":"A"}}
For the findings 24 hours later, the nurse should interpret them as follows:
Urinary output: 40 ml/hr
Interpretation: Sign of potential worsening condition
Explanation: A urinary output of 40 ml/hr is concerning and indicates potential dehydration. It is a sign of potential worsening of the client's condition, as it suggests inadequate fluid intake or ongoing fluid losses.
3+ ketones
Interpretation: Sign of potential worsening condition
Explanation: The presence of 3+ ketones in the urine suggests ongoing ketosis, which can occur in hyperemesis gravidarum due to starvation and the breakdown of fats for energy. It is a sign of potential worsening of the client's nutritional status.
Heart rate: 100/min
Interpretation: Sign of potential improvement
Explanation: A heart rate of 100/min is within the normal range. It can be interpreted as a sign of potential improvement, indicating that the client's cardiovascular system is maintaining an appropriate heart rate.
WBC count: 10,000/mm3
Interpretation: Unrelated to diagnosis
Explanation: The WBC count within the normal range (10,000/mm3) is unrelated to the diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum. It does not provide specific information about the client's condition in this context.
Urine specific gravity: 1.050
Interpretation: Sign of potential worsening condition
Explanation: A urine specific gravity of 1.050 is elevated and indicates concentrated urine. This finding is a sign of potential worsening of the client's dehydration status.
Urine pH: 5
Interpretation: Unrelated to diagnosis
Explanation: The urine pH of 5 is within the normal range and is unrelated to the diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum. It does not provide specific information about the client's condition in this context.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Previous cervical cerclage
Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure in which a stitch is placed in the cervix to reinforce it and reduce the risk of preterm birth. The fact that the client has had a previous cervical cerclage suggests a history of cervical insufficiency or a shortened cervix, which increases the risk of preterm delivery in subsequent pregnancies.
B. Previous delivery at 37 weeks gestation: A delivery at 37 weeks gestation is considered term. While it is on the earlier side of term, it does not inherently indicate an increased risk for preterm delivery.
C. Previous delivery of a newborn weighing 2.5 kg (5.5 lb): While low birth weight can be associated with preterm birth, the weight alone does not necessarily indicate a history of preterm delivery. Birth weight can be influenced by various factors.
D. Previous reactive non-stress test: A reactive non-stress test is a reassuring result, indicating that the fetus is responsive and generally doing well. It does not suggest a history or risk of preterm delivery.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Correct Answer: B
B. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics
Newborns with a leaking myelomeningocele are at a high risk for infection, especially meningitis, due to the exposure of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics helps reduce the risk of infection until the defect is surgically closed.
Incorrect answers:
A.Monitor the rectal temperature every 4 hr.Taking rectal temperatures is contraindicated in a newborn with a myelomeningocele due to the risk of trauma to the rectum and potential introduction of bacteria near the exposed spinal cord and CSF. Axillary temperatures should be used instead.
C.Prepare for surgical closure after 72 hr.Surgical repair of a myelomeningocele is typically performed within the first 24–48 hours of life to reduce the risk of infection and prevent further nerve damage.
D.Cleanse the site with povidone-iodine. Povidone-iodine is not appropriate for cleansing the exposed myelomeningocele site because it can be too harsh and toxic to neural tissue.

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