A nurse is discussing the importance of good nutrition to a young pregnant client. The nurse would point out that the growing fetus is getting nutrition from the mother via which structure?

Choice A reason:
Placing traction weights so they touch the head of the bed disrupts the effectiveness of the traction system. Skeletal traction relies on a continuous pulling force to maintain proper alignment of the fractured femur. If the weights are resting on any surface, the force is interrupted, which can lead to complications such as malunion or delayed healing. The weights must hang freely at all times to ensure therapeutic benefit.

Choice B reason:
Isometric exercises are beneficial for maintaining muscle tone and promoting circulation during immobilization. However, while this is a supportive intervention, it is not the most critical or immediate nursing action in the context of skeletal traction. Encouraging exercises every 8 hours is appropriate, but it does not directly address the most urgent or discomfort-related aspect of care.

Choice C reason:
Pin care is a routine but potentially painful procedure associated with skeletal traction. Administering pain medication beforehand is a priority nursing action because it ensures client comfort, reduces anxiety, and promotes cooperation during the procedure. This intervention reflects both compassionate care and adherence to best practices in pain management and infection prevention.

Choice D reason:
Repositioning a client in skeletal traction must be done with extreme caution to avoid disrupting the traction setup. Assisting the client to shift position every 4 hours may inadvertently alter the alignment or tension of the traction apparatus. While pressure injury prevention is important, repositioning must be coordinated carefully and is not the most appropriate standalone action in this context.

Blood volume increases significantly within the first few weeks of gestation and increases progressively throughout the pregnancy.
The total blood volume increase varies from 20% to 100% above prepregnancy levels, usually close to 45%1.
Choice A is incorrect because the increase is usually close to 45%, not 20% to 25%.
Choice C is incorrect because the increase is usually close to 45%, not 50% to 55%.
Choice D is incorrect because the increase is usually close to 45%, not 30% to 35%.