A nurse is caring for a client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and has suspected placenta previa. For which of the following findings should the nurse monitor the client?

Choice A rationale:
Fetal head compression is unlikely to cause variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. During contractions and labor, the fetal head may experience pressure, but this usually leads to early decelerations, not variable decelerations. Early decelerations are considered benign and are caused by the head's pressure stimulating the vagus nerve, resulting in a temporary decrease in heart rate.
Choice B rationale:
Umbilical cord compression is a known cause of variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. When the umbilical cord is compressed, it can temporarily disrupt blood flow and oxygen supply to the fetus, leading to decelerations. Variable decelerations often appear as abrupt, sharp drops in the fetal heart rate and are typically characterized by their unpredictable
nature.
Choice C rationale:
Maternal opioid administration is not a direct cause of variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. While opioids can cross the placenta and may affect the fetus, they are more likely to cause other issues, such as respiratory depression in the newborn, rather than variable decelerations.
Choice D rationale:
Uteroplacental insufficiency is not the primary factor causing variable decelerations. Uteroplacental insufficiency refers to an inadequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to the placenta, which can lead to late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, not variable decelerations.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should include teaching the client to perform daily fetal movement counts because it is an essential aspect of monitoring the baby's well-being and assessing fetal distress. Fetal movement counts help the client become familiar with their baby's normal patterns of movement, allowing them to detect any changes or decreased movements promptly. This can be crucial in identifying potential issues with the baby's health and seeking timely medical attention.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should not advise limiting fluid intake to 1,000 mL/day for a client with mild preeclampsia. Adequate hydration is important during pregnancy, and excessive fluid restriction can lead to dehydration, which is harmful to both the mother and the baby. Preeclampsia can cause fluid retention and high blood pressure, but complete fluid restriction is not the appropriate approach for managing the condition.

Choice C rationale:

The nurse should not suggest limiting sodium intake to 2,000 mg/day for a client with mild preeclampsia. While reducing sodium intake can be beneficial for some individuals with hypertension, it is not the primary focus in managing mild preeclampsia. The mainstay of treatment for mild preeclampsia typically involves close monitoring, rest, and potential medications to control blood pressure if necessary.

Choice D rationale:

The nurse should not recommend that the client rest in bed in the supine position. During pregnancy, especially with preeclampsia, lying flat on the back (supine position) can lead to a condition called supine hypotensive syndrome. This occurs when the weight of the uterus presses on the vena cava, reducing blood flow back to the heart and potentially causing a drop in blood pressure and decreased blood flow to the baby.