A nurse is caring for a group of clients on an intrapartum unit. Which of the following findings should be reported to the RN immediately?
A client who is at 32 weeks of gestation and is experiencing irregular, frequent contractions is tearful
A client who has preeclampsia has 2+ patellar reflexes and 2+ proteinuria
A client who is at 28 weeks of gestation and receiving terbutaline reports fine tremors
A client who has preeclampsia and reports epigastric pain and unresolved headache
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D reason: A client who has preeclampsia and reports epigastric pain and unresolved headache should be reported to the RN immediately, as these are signs of severe preeclampsia and impending eclampsia, which can lead to seizures, coma, and death. The client may need anticonvulsant medication, magnesium sulfate infusion, and delivery of the fetus.
Choice A reason: A client who is at 32 weeks of gestation and is experiencing irregular, frequent contractions is tearful may have preterm labor, which should be monitored and treated accordingly. However, this is not as urgent as choice D, as the contractions may subside with hydration, rest, or tocolytic medication.
Choice B reason: A client who has preeclampsia has 2+ patellar reflexes and 2+ proteinuria may have mild preeclampsia, which should be managed with antihypertensive medication, bed rest, and fetal monitoring. However, this is not as urgent as choice D, as the reflexes and proteinuria are not indicative of severe preeclampsia or eclampsia.
Choice C reason: A client who is at 28 weeks of gestation and receiving terbutaline reports fine tremors may have a common side effect of terbutaline, which is a beta-adrenergic agonist that relaxes uterine smooth muscle and inhibits contractions. However, this is not as urgent as choice D, as the tremors are usually transient and benign. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs, blood glucose, and fetal heart rate.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Checking the consistency of the client's uterine fundus is the first action the nurse should take, as it can indicate the cause of excessive bleeding. A boggy or soft fundus indicates uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should massage the fundus until it becomes firm and contracted.
Choice B reason:
Having the client use the bedpan to urinate is an important action, as a full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate source of bleeding.
Choice C reason:
Increasing the client's fluid intake is an important action, as it can help replace fluid loss and prevent hypovolemia and shock. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not stop the bleeding.
Choice D reason:
Preparing to administer oxytocic medication is an important action, as it can stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it requires a provider's prescription and may not be necessary if fundal massage is effective.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Dinoprostone stimulates uterine contractions is incorrect, as this is not the primary purpose of the medication. Dinoprostone is a prostaglandin that can induce labor by ripening the cervix and enhancing uterine contractility, but it is not used solely for stimulating contractions.
Choice B reason:
Dinoprostone promotes softening of the cervix is correct, as this is the main purpose of the medication. Dinoprostone is used to prepare the cervix for labor by increasing its softness, dilation, and effacement. This can facilitate the descent of the fetus and shorten the duration of labor.
Choice C reason:
Dinoprostone relaxes uterine contractions is incorrect, as this is the opposite effect of the medication. Dinoprostone can increase uterine tone and frequency, which can help initiate or augment labor. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of uterine hyperstimulation or fetal distress.
Choice D reason:
Dinoprostone assists with ending the pregnancy is incorrect, as this is not the intended use of the medication. Dinoprostone can be used to terminate a pregnancy in some cases, such as fetal demise or missed abortion, but it is not routinely used for this purpose. The nurse should explain to the client that dinoprostone is used to induce labor and not to end a pregnancy.
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