A nurse is caring for a patient suspected of having an ectopic pregnancy at 8 weeks of gestation.
Which symptoms should the nurse expect to identify as consistent with the diagnosis?
Large amount of vaginal bleeding.
Severe nausea and vomiting.
Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age.
Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D rationale
Unilateral, cramp-like abdominal pain. This is a common symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. The pain usually starts on one side of the abdomen after the early stages of pregnancy and may be accompanied by spotting or vaginal bleeding.
Choice A rationale
Large amount of vaginal bleeding. While vaginal bleeding can occur in an ectopic pregnancy, it’s usually light to moderate, not large. Heavy vaginal bleeding is more commonly associated with miscarriage or other conditions.
Choice B rationale
Severe nausea and vomiting. While some women with an ectopic pregnancy may experience nausea and vomiting, these symptoms are common in early pregnancy and are not specific to ectopic pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
Uterine enlargement greater than expected for gestational age. This is not a typical symptom of an ectopic pregnancy. In fact, because the pregnancy is not in the uterus, the size of the uterus may be smaller than expected for the gestational age.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it’s important for the nurse to provide reassurance and support during the exam, this statement alone doesn’t address the client’s specific concerns or provide any useful information.
Choice B rationale
Telling the client to relax doesn’t address her concerns or provide any useful information. It’s normal to feel nervous before a pelvic exam, especially if it’s the first one.
Choice C rationale
Asking the client what part of the exam makes her most nervous allows the nurse to provide specific information and reassurance, which can help alleviate the client’s anxiety.
Choice D rationale
While a pelvic exam is often part of the process when starting oral contraceptives, it’s not always required. The need for a pelvic exam can depend on the client’s age, sexual history, and other factors.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it might seem helpful to offer to tell the parents for the client, it’s important to respect the client’s autonomy and confidentiality. The nurse should support the client in making their own decisions about disclosure.
Choice B rationale
It’s not necessarily true that the parents will have to be told why the client is being admitted. Confidentiality is a key aspect of healthcare, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like sexually transmitted infections.
Choice C rationale
This response is empathetic and non-judgmental. It acknowledges the client’s feelings and opens up a conversation without forcing any action. This allows the client to feel heard and supported, which is crucial in a healthcare setting.
Choice D rationale
While this response might be well-intentioned, it assumes that the parents will understand and doesn’t acknowledge the client’s fear or concern. It’s important for the nurse to validate the client’s feelings and provide support.
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