How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is caring for a client who is at 34 weeks of gestation.

The client reports headache, dizziness, and blurred vision for 1 week.

The nurse notes 3+ edema in lower extremities and deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) 3+ with positive clonus.

The fetal heart rate (FHR) is 140 with minimal variability.

The nurse is reviewing the client’s electronic medical record to develop a plan of care.

Which condition is the client most likely experiencing, what are two actions the nurse should take to

A.

Preeclampsia

B.

Chronic hypertension

C.

Neurologic status

D.

Liver function studies

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A rationale 
The client’s symptoms of headache, dizziness, blurred vision, 3+ edema in lower extremities, deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) 3+ with positive clonus, and a fetal heart rate (FHR) of 140 with minimal variability are indicative of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. It usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure had been normal. Left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and baby. To address this condition, the nurse should: Monitor the client’s blood pressure regularly. Administer prescribed medications to control blood pressure and prevent seizures. The nurse should monitor the following parameters to assess the client’s progress: Blood pressure readings: Regular monitoring can help detect any sudden increases, which could indicate worsening preeclampsia. Urine protein levels: Protein in the urine is a common sign of preeclampsia and should be monitored regularly. 
Choice B rationale 
Chronic hypertension is a possibility, but it does not fully explain the client’s symptoms. While chronic hypertension can cause headaches and dizziness, it does not typically cause 3+ edema in the lower extremities or positive clonus. Furthermore, chronic hypertension would have been present before the pregnancy or diagnosed before the client reached 20 weeks of gestation. 
Choice C rationale 
While the client’s symptoms of headache, dizziness, and blurred vision could suggest a neurologic issue, the presence of 3+ edema in the lower extremities and positive clonus are more indicative of preeclampsia. Neurologic status would be monitored as part of the care for a client with preeclampsia. 
Choice D rationale 
Liver function studies would be relevant if there were symptoms or signs suggesting liver involvement such as upper right abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, or jaundice. However, the client’s symptoms are more indicative of preeclampsia. 
 
 


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is []

Explanation

The client is most likely experiencing Normal labor progression. The retraction of the fetal head against the maternal perineum, regular and progressing contractions, and full dilation of the cervix are all signs of normal labor progression.
Actions: The nurse should:
1. Encourage the client to push during contractions. This will help the baby move down the birth canal.
2. Monitor fetal heart rate. This is crucial to ensure the baby is not in distress.

Parameters: The nurse should monitor:
1. Frequency of contractions. This will help assess the progress of labor.
2. Fetal heart rate. Any abnormalities could indicate fetal distress, which would require immediate medical attention.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Vaginal discharge is common during pregnancy due to the increased production of estrogen and greater blood flow to the pelvic area. It is not typically a sign of preeclampsia.
Choice B rationale
Elevated blood pressure is a primary symptom of preeclampsia. If a pregnant client has high blood pressure, it should indicate to the nurse that the client requires further evaluation for this disorder.
Choice C rationale
Joint pain is not typically a symptom of preeclampsia. It could be related to other conditions or simply a result of the physical changes of pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Increased urine output is not typically associated with preeclampsia. In fact, decreased urine output could potentially be a sign of kidney problems related to preeclampsia.

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register