A nurse is caring for a female client, age 29, at 39 weeks of gestation in the intrapartum unit following spontaneous rupture of membranes.
Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.
The client is at risk for developing
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"B"}
The client is at risk for developing Intraamniotic infection as evidenced by White blood cell count.
Rationale for correct answers:
Intraamniotic infection (chorioamnionitis) is a bacterial infection of the amniotic sac often associated with prolonged rupture of membranes and labor. This client has spontaneous rupture of membranes (SROM) 1 hour ago with positive nitrazine test confirming amniotic fluid presence. The elevated white blood cell count (19,800/mm³; normal 5,000–15,000/mm³) is an early marker of infection or inflammation. The presence of group B streptococcus further increases infection risk. The amniotic fluid is moderate and clear, which is normal, so fluid characteristics alone do not indicate infection. Early identification and management of intraamniotic infection are critical to prevent maternal and fetal morbidity.
Rationale for incorrect Response 1 options:
Fetal hypoxia typically manifests as abnormal fetal heart rate patterns such as late decelerations or decreased variability, which are not present here (FHR 150/min, moderate variability). Labor dystocia refers to abnormal or slow labor progress; with 2 cm dilation and regular contractions, no evidence suggests dystocia yet. Gestational hypertension is a maternal hypertensive disorder unrelated to current rupture or WBC findings.
Rationale for incorrect Response 2 options:
Amniotic fluid characteristics (clear, moderate) are normal and not indicative of infection. Uterine tone is moderate and normal on palpation, not suggesting infection or abnormal labor. Cervical exam findings (2 cm dilation, 10% effacement) are early labor signs but do not indicate infection risk.
Take home points:
- Elevated WBC after rupture of membranes signals increased risk of intraamniotic infection.
- Clear amniotic fluid with positive nitrazine confirms membrane rupture but does not confirm infection.
- Early labor signs should be monitored for infection risk, especially with group B strep positive status.
- Differentiating infection from other labor complications like dystocia or fetal hypoxia relies on clinical signs and fetal monitoring.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Urinary output of 20 mL/hr is indicative of oliguria, which is a significant adverse effect of magnesium sulfate therapy. Magnesium is renally excreted, and decreased urinary output can lead to magnesium toxicity. The desired urinary output for a client receiving magnesium sulfate should be at least 25 to 30 mL/hr to ensure adequate drug excretion.
Choice B rationale
Fetal heart rate pattern with minimal variability is a concerning finding and can indicate central nervous system depression in the fetus, potentially due to excessive magnesium levels. Normal fetal heart rate variability reflects a healthy autonomic nervous system. Magnesium sulfate's therapeutic effect is on the mother, not directly on fetal heart rate variability.
Choice C rationale
A change in fetal heart rate from 150/min to 166/min, while still within the normal range (110-160 bpm), does not directly indicate the desired therapeutic effect of magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia. This fluctuation could be due to various factors and is not a primary indicator of successful seizure prophylaxis or blood pressure control.
Choice D rationale
Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant that works by blocking neuromuscular transmission, thereby reducing hyperreflexia associated with preeclampsia. A decrease in deep tendon reflexes from 4+ (hyperactive) to 2+ (normal) indicates that the medication is achieving its desired therapeutic effect of central nervous system depression and reducing seizure risk.
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing an opportunity to connect with others who have experienced similar losses offers significant psychosocial support. Sharing experiences can normalize grief, reduce feelings of isolation, and validate emotions. This peer support can facilitate the grieving process by fostering a sense of community and understanding during a challenging time.
Choice B rationale
While some causes of spontaneous abortion can be identified, many remain unknown even after the expulsion of fetal tissue. Genetic anomalies, chromosomal abnormalities, or uterine factors are often implicated, but a definitive cause is not always determined. Providing this information can create unrealistic expectations and potential disappointment for the client.
Choice C rationale
The decision to view fetal remains is highly personal and depends on individual coping mechanisms and cultural beliefs. For some, it can be a crucial part of acknowledging the loss and beginning the grieving process. Advising against it prematurely removes a potential avenue for closure and validation for the client.
Choice D rationale
Validating the client's grief, regardless of the gestational age, is crucial for emotional well-being. Acknowledging that it is "okay to feel some grief now" provides permission for the client to experience their emotions. Grief is a subjective process, and the intensity and duration are not dictated by the length of the pregnancy.
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