A nurse is collecting data from a client during a routine prenatal visit. The client is in their second trimester of pregnancy and reports feeling dizzy, has a racing heart, and becomes pale while lying on their back.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Provide the client with a glass of orange juice.
Instruct the client to take a brisk walk.
Position the client on their left side.
Check the client's temperature.
The Correct Answer is C
Explanation
C. Position the client on their left side
The symptoms of feeling dizzy, racing heart, and becoming pale while lying on their back are consistent with supine hypotensive syndrome or vena cava syndrome. This condition occurs when the pregnant uterus compresses the vena cava, reducing blood flow back to the heart and causing a drop-in blood pressure.
Positioning the client on their left side helps alleviate the pressure on the vena cava, allowing for improved blood flow and preventing further symptoms. This position optimizes blood circulation and reduces the risk of complications. The nurse should assist the client in turning onto their left side and ensure they are comfortable.
Providing the client with a glass of orange juice (option A) is not recommended as it may be helpful in cases of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia, but it is not the most appropriate action in this scenario.
Instructing the client to take a brisk walk (option B) is not recommended since physical exertion can further worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of complications.
Checking the client's temperature (option D) is not necessary as the reported symptoms are not indicative of a fever or infection.
Therefore, the most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is to position the client on their left side (option C).
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Disorientation is a common side effect of ECT and is typically temporary. It may include confusion and difficulty recalling recent events or personal information. This post-treatment disorientation is often referred to as the "postictal state" and usually resolves within a short period of time.
Sleep apnea, tonic-clonic seizures, and paresthesias are not expected findings following ECT and would require immediate attention and intervention if they were to occur. It is important for the nurse to closely monitor the client's vital signs, oxygen saturation levels, and neurological status after the procedure to ensure their safety and well-being.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a.This requires intervention because creases in the stockings can create pressure points that may lead to skin irritation or impaired circulation. The stockings should be applied smoothly and evenly to ensure proper compression and to avoid skin complications.
b.This is not necessary and can actually be incorrect. Antiembolic stockings should be applied with the correct side facing the client's skin. Turning them inside out could alter their effectiveness in providing the required compression.
c.This is appropriate. Applying antiembolic stockings before the client gets out of bed is recommended because it helps to promote venous return and prevent blood clots, especially if the client is immobile or has limited mobility.
d.This is appropriate. Asking the client to point their toes helps to ensure that the stockings can be applied correctly and fit well, reducing the risk of creating pressure points or causing discomfort.

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