A nurse is caring for an infant who has coarctation of the aorta. Which of the following should the nurse identify as an expected finding?

A. Expected outcome of the procedure: The provider must explain the expected outcome so the client understands the purpose and anticipated benefits of the colon resection. This information is essential for informed consent.

B. Cost of the procedure: The financial cost is not part of the informed consent process and is typically discussed by administrative or billing staff, not the provider. It does not affect the client’s medical decision-making.

C. Potential complications: The provider must inform the client of potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. Understanding possible adverse outcomes is critical for the client to make an informed choice.

D. Explanation of the procedure: A clear explanation of how the procedure will be performed allows the client to understand what to expect during surgery, which is a core component of informed consent.

E. Possible alternative treatments: The provider should discuss alternative treatments or procedures, including non-surgical options, so the client can weigh all choices and make an informed decision about care.

Rationale for correct choices

• Lower back pain and pinkish vaginal discharge: Pinkish vaginal discharge, often called “bloody show,” is a sign of cervical changes and indicates progression of labor. In combination with lower back pain, contractions and cervical effacement, it suggests that preterm labor may be underway and requires close monitoring.

• Uterine contractions every 8 min, palpate strong, duration 30 seconds: Regular, strong contractions in the third trimester can signal preterm labor. Given the client’s history of preterm birth, this finding warrants close monitoring and possible interventions to halt labor progression or enhance fetal lung maturity.

• FHR baseline 145/min, minimal variability: Minimal variability in the fetal heart rate can indicate fetal hypoxia or stress. Continuous monitoring and assessment of maternal-fetal status are necessary to identify potential complications and guide interventions.

• Cervical examination 2 cm, 50% effaced: Cervical changes at 33 weeks indicate early cervical ripening, consistent with preterm labor. This finding requires follow-up to evaluate progression and implement appropriate interventions to prevent preterm birth.

Rationale for incorrect choices

• Membranes intact: Intact membranes indicate that preterm premature rupture of membranes has not occurred. This is reassuring and does not require immediate intervention, although ongoing assessment is needed.