A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant and was admitted 6 days ago for preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM).
A nurse is performing a follow-up assessment on the client. Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s progress.
The Correct Answer is []
Potential Condition: Chorioamnionitis
Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the amniotic fluid, membranes, placenta, and/or decidua. It is often associated with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM), especially when there is a prolonged rupture of membranes, as in this case. The client’s symptoms, including a high temperature (38.2°C), elevated heart rate (112/min), and purulent amniotic fluid, strongly suggest an intra-amniotic infection.
Potential Condition: Abruptio Placentae
Abruptio placentae, also known as placental abruption, is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before childbirth. This condition can lead to significant maternal hemorrhage and jeopardize the well-
being of the fetus. The primary symptoms include vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, uterine tenderness, and contractions. In severe cases, it can cause maternal shock and fetal distress or death. The client’s symptoms, such as abdominal discomfort and contractions, could be indicative of this condition, but the presence of purulent amniotic fluid and fever makes chorioamnionitis a more likely diagnosis in this scenario.
Potential Condition: Prolapsed Umbilical Cord
A prolapsed umbilical cord occurs when the umbilical cord slips ahead of the fetal presenting part and prolapses into the cervical canal, vagina, or beyond. This is an obstetric emergency because the prolapsed cord can be compressed, cutting off the baby’s blood and oxygen supply. The primary signs include visible or palpable cord at the cervix or in the vagina, and sudden changes in fetal heart rate patterns, such as bradycardia or variable
decelerations. While the client’s fetal heart rate is elevated, there is no indication of a visible or palpable cord, making this condition less likely.
Potential Condition: Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific condition characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. It can lead to serious complications such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and organ damage. Symptoms include high blood pressure, proteinuria, severe headaches, visual disturbances, and epigastric pain. The client’s history of chronic hypertension and elevated heart rate could suggest preeclampsia, but the absence of high blood pressure and proteinuria in the current assessment makes this diagnosis less likely compared to chorioamnionitis.
Choice A: Prepare to administer gentamicin IV
Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic that is often used in combination with other antibiotics to treat chorioamnionitis. It is effective against a broad range of bacteria that could be causing the infection. Administering gentamicin IV can help manage the infection and prevent further complications for both the mother and the fetus34.
Choice B: Obtain a prescription for hydraclone PO
Hydraclone is not a standard treatment for chorioamnionitis. The primary treatment involves antibiotics to manage the infection. Therefore, this option is not appropriate in this scenario.
Choice C: Place the client in the Trendelenburg position
The Trendelenburg position, where the patient is laid flat on their back with their feet higher than their
head, is not indicated for chorioamnionitis. This position is typically used in cases of umbilical cord prolapse to relieve pressure on the cord.
Choice D: Place the client in a quiet environment
While placing the client in a quiet environment may help with overall comfort, it does not directly address the infection or its complications. Therefore, it is not a primary action in managing chorioamnionitis.
Choice E: Educate the client on the process of inducing labor
Inducing labor may be necessary in cases of chorioamnionitis to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. Prompt delivery is often recommended once the infection is diagnosed to prevent further maternal and fetal morbidity.
Parameters to Monitor:
Choice A: Uric acid levels
Monitoring uric acid levels can help assess the client’s overall metabolic state and detect any potential complications such as preeclampsia, which can coexist with chorioamnionitis.
Choice B: Deep tendon reflexes
Deep tendon reflexes are typically monitored in cases of preeclampsia to assess for hyperreflexia, which is not relevant in the context of chorioamnionitis.
Choice C: Dysfunctional labor
Monitoring for dysfunctional labor is important but not specific to chorioamnionitis. The primary focus should be on managing the infection and monitoring maternal and fetal well-being.
Choice D: Maternal body temperature
Maternal body temperature is a critical parameter to monitor in cases of chorioamnionitis. An elevated temperature is a key indicator of infection, and monitoring it helps assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Choice E: Inadequate uterine reduction
Inadequate uterine reduction is not a relevant parameter in the context of chorioamnionitis. The focus should be on monitoring signs of infection and maternal and fetal well-being.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Activate the patch 30 minutes after application
This statement is incorrect. The transdermal sumatriptan patch should be activated immediately after application, not 30 minutes later. The patch uses a mild electrical current to deliver the medication through the skin, and delaying activation would reduce its effectiveness.
Choice B reason: Take this medication daily to prevent headaches
This statement is also incorrect. Sumatriptan is used to treat acute migraine attacks and is not intended for daily use to prevent headaches. It should be used only when a migraine begins. Daily use could lead to medication overuse headaches and other side effects.
Choice C reason: Use contraception while taking this medication
This statement is correct. Women of childbearing age should use contraception while taking sumatriptan because its safety during pregnancy has not been established. It is important to avoid potential risks to the fetus.
Choice D reason: You can bathe with the patch in place
This statement is correct. The transdermal sumatriptan patch is designed to stay in place during bathing, showering, or swimming. However, it is not the most critical piece of information compared to the need for contraception.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking the client why they think they might have cancer when their diagnosis is benign can come across as dismissive and may not address the client’s underlying anxiety. It is important for the nurse to acknowledge the client’s feelings and provide support rather than questioning their concerns.
Choice B reason: Telling the client that there is no reason to worry based on their chart can be seen as dismissive of their feelings. While it may be factually correct, it does not address the client’s emotional state or provide the support they need.
Choice C reason: This response acknowledges the client’s concern and opens the door for further discussion. It shows empathy and understanding, which can help the client feel heard and supported. This approach aligns with therapeutic communication techniques that encourage clients to express their feelings and concerns.
Choice D reason: Suggesting that the client discuss their concerns with their provider is not incorrect, but it may not provide the immediate emotional support the client needs. While it is important for the client to have a detailed discussion with their provider, the nurse should first acknowledge and address the client’s immediate concerns.
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