A nurse is caring for a client who states he recently purchased lavender oil to use when he gets the flu.
The nurse should recognize which of the following findings as a potential contraindication for using lavender?

The correct answers are Choices A, C, D, E, F, and G.

Choice A rationale: Antihypertensive medication is indicated due to sustained elevated BP (≥160/110 mm Hg), which increases risk for stroke, placental abruption, and eclampsia. Prompt control reduces maternal and fetal morbidity.

Choice B rationale: Routine vaginal exams are contraindicated unless signs of labor are present. Frequent exams increase infection risk and are not part of standard care for hypertensive or preeclamptic clients.

Choice C rationale: A low-stimulation environment (dim lights, quiet room) reduces CNS irritability and seizure risk in preeclampsia. It supports neuroprotection and aligns with seizure precaution protocols.

Choice D rationale: Betamethasone promotes fetal lung maturity in preterm gestation when delivery is likely. It reduces neonatal respiratory distress syndrome and improves outcomes in hypertensive pregnancies.

Choice E rationale: A 24-hour urine specimen quantifies proteinuria, essential for diagnosing preeclampsia severity. Protein 3+ on dipstick warrants confirmation via timed collection for accurate staging.

Choice F rationale: Hourly intake and output monitoring detects fluid shifts, renal compromise, and early signs of pulmonary edema. It’s critical in hypertensive disorders to guide fluid management.

Choice G rationale: Bed rest minimizes physical stress, stabilizes BP, and reduces risk of placental disruption. Left lateral positioning enhances uteroplacental perfusion and supports fetal oxygenation.

The correct answer is choice B: Axillary.

Choice B rationale: The axillary site, or under the arm, is the preferred site for obtaining the temperature of a newborn. This method is safe and generally well-tolerated by infants. It carries a lower risk of injury or discomfort compared to other methods.

Choice A rationale: Rectal temperature measurement can be accurate but is more invasive and may cause discomfort or injury to the newborn. It is generally not the preferred method for routine temperature checks in newborns.

Choice C rationale: Tympanic temperature measurement, which uses the ear canal, may not be accurate for newborns due to their small ear canal size and the presence of vernix caseosa or amniotic fluid.

Choice D rationale: Oral temperature measurement is not suitable for newborns as they cannot hold the thermometer in their mouth safely or reliably. This method is more appropriate for older children and adults.