A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant and is at the end of her first trimester. The nurse should place the Doppler ultrasound stethoscope in which of the following locations to begin assessing for the fetal heart tones (FHT)?
Just above the umbilicus
Just above the symphysis pubis
The right lower quadrant
The left lower quadrant
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is B. Just above the symphysis pubis.
A. Just above the umbilicus: At the end of the first trimester, the uterus is still within the pelvic cavity, and fetal heart tones are typically not detectable above the umbilicus at this stage.
B. Just above the symphysis pubis: This is the correct placement for assessing fetal heart tones during the first trimester. The fetal heart is usually located low in the pelvis during early pregnancy, making it most easily heard just above the pubic bone.
C. The right lower quadrant: Fetal heart tones are typically assessed in the midline of the abdomen, and focusing on the lower quadrants may not be the optimal location, especially in the first trimester.
D. The left lower quadrant: Similar to the right lower quadrant, focusing on the lower quadrants may not be the most appropriate location for assessing fetal heart tones during the first trimester.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Shoulder presentation is not typically described using the terms RSA. Shoulder presentation would be noted differently, and it is uncommon.
B. Breech presentation involves the presentation of the fetus with the buttocks or feet first. RSA indicates the specific position of the sacrum in relation to the mother's right side.

C. Vertex presentation refers to the head-first position, and it is not described using the terms RSA.
D. Mentum presentation is not a standard term used to describe fetal presentation. Mentum typically refers to the chin, and fetal presentations are commonly described in terms of the presenting part (e.g., vertex, breech).
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A.
A. Determine respiratory function: The priority is to assess the client's airway, breathing, and circulation (ABCs). If the client becomes unresponsive, the nurse should quickly assess whether the airway is clear, check for breathing, and determine if there is a pulse. This initial assessment is crucial for identifying and addressing any immediate life-threatening issues.
B. Increase the TV fluid rate: While fluid administration may be necessary in certain situations, it is not the first priority when a client becomes unresponsive. Assessing respiratory function and circulation takes precedence to address immediate life-threatening concerns.
C. Access emergency medications from the cart: Accessing emergency medications may be necessary, but it should occur after the initial assessment of the client's airway, breathing, and circulation. Administering medications without first assessing the client's ABCs may delay appropriate interventions.
D. Collect a maternal blood sample for coagulopathy studies: This action is important for assessing coagulation status, but it is not the first priority when a client becomes unresponsive. The immediate focus should be on ensuring the client has a patent airway, is breathing, and has a pulse.
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