A nurse is caring for a group of patients on an intrapartum unit.
Which of the following findings should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately?
A patient at 28 weeks of gestation receiving terbutaline reports fine tremors.
A tearful patient at 32 weeks of gestation is experiencing irregular, frequent contractions.
A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia reports epigastric pain and an unresolved headache.
A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia has 2+ proteinuria and 2+ patellar reflexes.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A patient at 28 weeks of gestation receiving terbutaline may report fine tremors. This is a common side effect of terbutaline, which is a medication used to relax the muscles in the uterus to prevent premature labor. However, while it may be uncomfortable for the patient, it is not typically a cause for immediate concern.
Choice B rationale
A tearful patient at 32 weeks of gestation experiencing irregular, frequent contractions could be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, which are often referred to as “false labor.”. These contractions are usually irregular and do not increase in intensity or frequency. While they can be uncomfortable, they are a normal part of pregnancy and do not typically require immediate medical attention. Choice C rationale
A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia reporting epigastric pain and an unresolved headache should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms could indicate severe preeclampsia, which can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Epigastric pain may suggest liver involvement, and a persistent headache could be a sign of neurological involvement, both of which require immediate medical attention.
Choice D rationale
A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia having 2+ proteinuria and 2+ patellar reflexes is expected. Proteinuria is a common symptom of preeclampsia, and hyperreflexia can be a sign of increased neurological excitability, a common feature of preeclampsia. However, these findings alone do not typically require immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test is a screening test that measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in the mother’s blood during pregnancy. It is used to assess the likelihood of certain birth defects, including neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
Choice B rationale
The MSAFP test does not assess fetal lung maturity. Other tests, such as amniocentesis, can be used to assess this.
Choice C rationale
The MSAFP test does not identify Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. Rh incompatibility is typically determined through blood typing and antibody screening.
Choice D rationale
While the MSAFP test can provide valuable information about the health of the fetus, it does not assess various markers of fetal well-being. It is specifically used to screen for certain birth defects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing deep tendon reflexes every hour is a common practice in managing severe preeclampsia. Hyperreflexia can be a sign of worsening pre-eclampsia.
Choice B rationale
Continuous fetal monitoring is typically recommended for patients with severe pre-eclampsia. This allows for early detection of fetal distress.
Choice C rationale
Ambulating twice daily may not be appropriate for a patient with severe pre-eclampsia at 35 weeks of gestation. Bed rest is often recommended to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
Choice D rationale
Obtaining a daily weight is a common practice in managing severe pre-eclampsia. Sudden weight gain can be a sign of worsening pre-eclampsia.
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