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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.

A patient at 28 weeks of gestation receiving terbutaline reports fine tremors.

B.

A tearful patient at 32 weeks of gestation is experiencing irregular, frequent contractions.

C.

A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia reports epigastric pain and an unresolved headache.

D.

A patient diagnosed with preeclampsia has 2+ proteinuria and 2+ patellar reflexes.

Answer and Explanation

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. 
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Methylergonovine is a medication that is primarily used to prevent or treat excessive bleeding after childbirth. It works by increasing the rate and strength of contractions and the stiffness of the uterus muscles, which helps to decrease bleeding. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic setting. Therefore, the nurse should inform the client that this medication is intended to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
While preventing postpartum infection is important, methylergonovine is not specifically used for this purpose. Postpartum infection is typically prevented and treated with antibiotics and good hygiene practices.
Choice C rationale
Thromboembolic events, such as blood clots, can be a risk after childbirth. However, methylergonovine is not used to prevent these events. Anticoagulant medications are typically used to prevent thromboembolic events.
Choice D rationale
Methylergonovine is not used to prevent hypertension. In fact, it can cause increased blood pressure as a side effect. Therefore, it would not be used as a preventative measure for hypertension.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
While cigarette smoking can increase the risk of many complications during pregnancy, including placental abruption, it is not the most common risk factor. Smoking can cause constriction and damage to the blood vessels in the placenta, but other factors, such as hypertension, are more commonly associated with placental abruption.
Choice B rationale
Hypertension is the most common risk factor for placental abruption. High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the placenta, leading to abruption. Chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia can all increase a woman’s risk of experiencing a placental abruption.
Choice C rationale
Blunt force trauma, such as that experienced in a car accident or a fall, can cause placental abruption, but it is not the most common risk factor. Any trauma to the abdomen during pregnancy should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to assess for potential complications, including placental abruption.
Choice D rationale
Cocaine use can increase the risk of placental abruption. Cocaine causes intense vasoconstriction, which can compromise the blood flow to the placenta and lead to abruption. However, it is not the most common risk factor for this condition.

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