A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted to the maternity unit at 38 weeks of gestation and who is experiencing polyhydramnios. The nurse should understand that this diagnosis means which of the following?
The client is carrying more than one fetus.
The fetus is likely to have a congenital anomaly, be growth restricted, or demonstrate fetal distress during labor.
An excessive amount of amniotic fluid is present.
There is an elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the amniotic fluid.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the definition of polyhydramnios, but rather a possible cause of it. Polyhydramnios is a condition where the amniotic fluid volume exceeds 2,000 mL at term, or the amniotic fluid index (AFI) is greater than 25 cm. Polyhydramnios can occur in multiple pregnancies, as the fetuses produce more urine and fluid than a single fetus.
Choice B reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the definition of polyhydramnios, but rather a possible complication of it. Polyhydramnios can cause fetal anomalies, such as esophageal atresia, anencephaly, or neural tube defects, which impair the swallowing or absorption of the amniotic fluid. Polyhydramnios can also cause fetal growth restriction or distress, as the excess fluid can compress the umbilical cord or the placenta, and reduce the blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus.
Choice C reason: This statement is correct, as it is the definition of polyhydramnios, which is a condition where the amniotic fluid volume exceeds 2,000 mL at term, or the amniotic fluid index (AFI) is greater than 25 cm. Polyhydramnios can be diagnosed by ultrasound, and it can cause maternal and fetal complications, such as preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, placental abruption, or cord prolapse.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect, as it is not the definition of polyhydramnios, but rather a marker of fetal anomalies. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that is produced by the fetus, and it can be measured in the maternal serum or the amniotic fluid. An elevated level of AFP in the amniotic fluid can indicate fetal anomalies, such as neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects, or renal anomalies, which can cause polyhydramnios.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using fingertips when calming the newborn is not recommended, as it can overstimulate the immature nervous system and cause stress. Instead, the nurse should use gentle, firm, and sustained touch, such as cupping the head and feet, or swaddling the newborn.
Choice B reason: Positioning the premature infant on their abdomen is contraindicated, as it can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The nurse should position the newborn on their back or side, with a rolled blanket or towel to support the spine and prevent flattening of the head.
Choice C reason: Keeping the newborn in a well-lit nursery is not advisable, as it can interfere with the development of the circadian rhythm and sleep patterns. The nurse should provide a dark and quiet environment for the newborn, and expose them to natural light during the day.
Choice D reason: Clustering the newborn's care activities is beneficial, as it can reduce the number of disruptions and allow for longer periods of rest and growth. The nurse should plan and coordinate the care activities, such as feeding, bathing, changing, and assessing, to minimize the stress on the newborn.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Increased subcutaneous fat is not a typical finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because it is more characteristic of a term or preterm newborn. A postterm newborn tends to have less subcutaneous fat, and may appear thin and wasted.
Choice B reason: Dry, cracked skin is a common finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because the skin has been exposed to the amniotic fluid for a prolonged period. The skin may also appear peeling, wrinkled, or leathery.
Choice C reason: Scant scalp hair is not a usual finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because it is more characteristic of a preterm newborn. A postterm newborn tends to have more scalp hair, and may also have long nails and abundant lanugo.
Choice D reason: Copious vernix is not a specific finding in a newborn who was born at 42.5 weeks of gestation, because it is more characteristic of a term or preterm newborn. A postterm newborn tends to have little or no vernix, which is a white, cheesy substance that protects the skin in utero.
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