A nurse is caring for a pregnant client and reviewing signs of complications that should be promptly reported to the provider.
Which of the following should be included?
Vaginal bleeding.
Lightheadedness when lying on back.
Heartburn after eating.
Swelling of the ankles.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be a sign of a serious complication such as placenta previa or placental abruption. Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, which can lead to severe bleeding during pregnancy and delivery. Placental abruption is a serious condition in which the placenta separates from the uterus before the baby is born, which can cause heavy bleeding and can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. Therefore, any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should be promptly reported to the healthcare provider.
Choice B rationale
Lightheadedness when lying on the back, also known as supine hypotensive syndrome, can occur in pregnancy when the enlarged uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, reducing blood return to the heart and causing a drop in blood pressure. While this can be uncomfortable, it is generally not considered a serious complication and can be alleviated by changing position.
Choice C rationale
Heartburn after eating is a common discomfort during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus. While it can be uncomfortable, it is generally not a sign of a serious complication.
Choice D rationale
Swelling of the ankles, also known as edema, is common in pregnancy due to increased fluid volume in the body. While it can be uncomfortable, it is generally not a sign of a serious complication unless it is sudden or severe, which could be a sign of preeclampsia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While inserting an IV catheter can be a part of the overall management plan for a client showing late decelerations on the electronic fetal monitor, it is not the initial course of action. The primary concern with late decelerations is that they may indicate fetal hypoxia, and the first response should be aimed at improving fetal oxygenation.
Choice B rationale
Assisting the client into the left-lateral position is the correct initial response when late decelerations are observed on the electronic fetal monitor. This position helps to maximize blood flow to the uterus and placenta, thereby improving oxygen delivery to the fetus.
Choice C rationale
Applying a fetal scalp electrode may be useful for obtaining a more accurate fetal heart rate tracing, but it is not the initial response to late decelerations. The priority is to address the potential fetal hypoxia that late decelerations may indicate.
Choice D rationale
Performing a vaginal exam would not be the initial response to late decelerations. While a vaginal exam can provide valuable information about the progress of labor, it does not address the issue of potential fetal hypoxia indicated by late decelerations.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale
The apex of the heart is the most appropriate site to assess an infant’s heart rate. In infants, the apical pulse provides the most accurate assessment of heart rate. The apical pulse is located at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line.
Choice A rationale
The carotid artery is not typically used to assess an infant’s heart rate. This site is more commonly used in adults and older children.
Choice B rationale
The brachial artery can be used to assess an infant’s heart rate, but it is typically used for blood pressure measurements rather than heart rate assessments.
Choice D rationale
The radial artery is not typically used to assess an infant’s heart rate. This site is more commonly used in adults and older children.
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