A nurse is monitoring a patient who is receiving magnesium sulfate to manage pre-eclampsia.
Which of the following observations should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?
Respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute
Fetal heart rate of 158 beats per minute
Persistent headache for 30 minutes
Urinary output of 40 mL in 2 hours
The Correct Answer is D
Answer and explanation
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 16 breaths per minute is within the normal range for an adult, and would not typically be a cause for concern.
Choice B rationale
A Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) of 158 beats per minute is within the normal range (110-160 beats per minute) and would not typically be a cause for concern.
Choice C rationale
While a persistent headache can be a symptom of pre-eclampsia, it is not typically a reason to report to the healthcare provider when a patient is receiving magnesium sulfate to manage pre-eclampsia.
Choice D rationale
A urinary output of 40 mL in 2 hours is less than the normal range (at least 30 mL/hour). This could indicate kidney dysfunction, which is a serious complication of pre-eclampsia. Therefore, this observation should be reported to the healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
The client is most likely experiencing Normal labor progression. The retraction of the fetal head against the maternal perineum, regular and progressing contractions, and full dilation of the cervix are all signs of normal labor progression.
Actions: The nurse should:
1. Encourage the client to push during contractions. This will help the baby move down the birth canal.
2. Monitor fetal heart rate. This is crucial to ensure the baby is not in distress.
Parameters: The nurse should monitor:
1. Frequency of contractions. This will help assess the progress of labor.
2. Fetal heart rate. Any abnormalities could indicate fetal distress, which would require immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing deep tendon reflexes every hour is a common practice in managing severe preeclampsia. Hyperreflexia can be a sign of worsening pre-eclampsia.
Choice B rationale
Continuous fetal monitoring is typically recommended for patients with severe pre-eclampsia. This allows for early detection of fetal distress.
Choice C rationale
Ambulating twice daily may not be appropriate for a patient with severe pre-eclampsia at 35 weeks of gestation. Bed rest is often recommended to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
Choice D rationale
Obtaining a daily weight is a common practice in managing severe pre-eclampsia. Sudden weight gain can be a sign of worsening pre-eclampsia.
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