A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant.
The nurse is reviewing the client's medical record.
Select 4 findings that indicate a potential prenatal complication.
Fetal activity
Urine ketones
Urine protein
Report of headache
Respiratory rate
Blood pressure
Gravida/parity
Correct Answer : A,C,D,F
Rationale:
A. Fetal activity: Decreased fetal movement is an abnormal finding suggesting possible fetal distress or hypoxia. It indicates reduced oxygen or nutrient delivery to the fetus, often associated with maternal complications such as hypertension or preeclampsia. Immediate evaluation with fetal monitoring or ultrasound is warranted.
B. Urine ketones: The absence of urine ketones is expected and does not indicate a prenatal complication. Ketones would only be concerning if elevated, as they could signal dehydration, starvation, or poorly controlled diabetes, which is not present in this case.
C. Urine protein: The presence of 3+ protein in the urine is a key indicator of preeclampsia. Proteinuria results from endothelial damage in the kidneys caused by hypertension, leading to leakage of protein into the urine and confirming a serious pregnancy complication.
D. Report of headache: A severe, persistent headache unrelieved by acetaminophen suggests cerebral vasospasm related to preeclampsia. It reflects increased blood pressure affecting cerebral circulation and can precede seizures or eclampsia if untreated.
E. Respiratory rate: A respiratory rate of 16/min is within the normal range for adults and does not indicate a prenatal complication. There is no evidence of respiratory distress or metabolic abnormality in this finding.
F. Blood pressure: A reading of 162/112 mm Hg meets the diagnostic criteria for severe hypertension in pregnancy and strongly indicates preeclampsia. Uncontrolled elevated blood pressure increases the risk of seizures, placental abruption, and fetal growth restriction.
G. Gravida/parity: Being G3 P2 with one preterm birth is useful background information but not, by itself, a sign of a current complication. It helps identify obstetric history and risk factors but does not reflect an immediate prenatal concern in this assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I will ask your provider to discuss options for discontinuing treatment with you.": This response supports the client’s autonomy and right to refuse treatment while ensuring that the provider is informed to discuss the medical and ethical aspects of stopping therapy. It reflects respect for the client’s wishes and promotes shared decision-making.
B. "You cannot legally discontinue treatment unless you have a living will.": A living will is not required for a client to refuse or discontinue treatment. Competent clients have the legal and ethical right to make decisions about their own care, including the choice to stop therapy, regardless of advance directives.
C. "You must continue with these treatments because they are lifesaving.": This statement disregards the client’s autonomy and imposes the nurse’s opinion on the client’s decision. Even if the treatment is potentially lifesaving, the client has the right to decline it based on their personal values and quality-of-life considerations.
D. "I know your provider thinks these treatments are necessary for you.": This response shifts focus away from the client’s preferences and reinforces the provider’s opinion instead. It fails to acknowledge the client’s emotional and ethical right to choose.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The client started working in a parking garage 3 months ago: Working in a parking garage may expose the client to exhaust fumes and carbon monoxide, which are hazardous during pregnancy. This environment increases the risk of fetal hypoxia and warrants further evaluation for occupational safety and potential exposure mitigation.
B. The client is doing 30 min of moderate exercise daily: Moderate exercise during pregnancy is generally safe and encouraged to promote maternal health, improve circulation, and reduce gestational complications. This activity does not indicate unsafe behavior.
C. The client is drinking 2.5 L of water per day: Adequate hydration is recommended during pregnancy to support maternal and fetal circulation, amniotic fluid levels, and overall health. Drinking 2.5 L per day is appropriate and does not require intervention.
D. The client last visited the dentist 4 months ago: Regular dental care is encouraged, but a visit every 4–6 months is generally considered safe and routine. This finding does not indicate unsafe behavior requiring urgent evaluation.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
