A nurse is performing a contraction stress test (CST) on a client who is at 40 weeks of gestation.The results of the test indicate a negative CST.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Reproductive System

1. Assist with breastfeeding techniques to ensure proper latch: This is correct because the client is breastfeeding and proper latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding and preventing nipple pain or damage.
2. Educate the client on signs of postpartum depression and provide resources for support: This is correct because postpartum depression can occur, and educating the client about its signs and providing resources for support is essential.
3. Administer antibiotics to prevent infection at the incision site: This is incorrect because there is no indication of an infection at the episiotomy site. Administering antibiotics without signs of infection is not necessary.
4. Encourage the client to take hot baths to relieve perineal pain: This is incorrect because hot baths are not recommended postpartum due to the risk of introducing bacteria to the perineal area. Instead, sitz baths with warm water are typically recommended.

Circulatory System

1. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly: This is correct because monitoring vital signs is essential postpartum to detect any potential complications such as hypertension or postpartum hemorrhage.
2. Encourage early ambulation to prevent thromboembolism: This is correct because early ambulation helps prevent the formation of blood clots, which is a risk postpartum.
3. Administer diuretics to reduce fluid retention: This is incorrect because there is no indication that the client has excessive fluid retention. Diuretics are not typically used postpartum unless there is a specific medical indication.
4. Restrict fluid intake to prevent hypertension: This is incorrect because restricting fluid intake is not an appropriate intervention postpartum. Adequate hydration is important for recovery and breastfeeding.

Respiratory System

1. Encourage deep breathing exercises and use of an incentive spirometer: This is correct because these exercises help prevent respiratory complications such as atelectasis and promote lung expansion.
2. Monitor oxygen saturation levels and respiratory rate: This is correct because monitoring respiratory status is essential to ensure the client is not experiencing any respiratory distress.
3. Administer bronchodilators to improve lung function: This is incorrect because there is no indication that the client has respiratory issues that require bronchodilators.
4. Place the client in a supine position to promote lung expansion: This is incorrect because the supine position does not promote lung expansion effectively. Instead, the client should be positioned with the head of the bed elevated.

The correct answer is Choice A

Choice A rationale: Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 25 mg/dL exceeds the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL and may indicate impaired renal function or dehydration. In pregnancy, elevated BUN is concerning because renal perfusion is typically increased, leading to lower BUN levels. A rise suggests possible renal compromise, which can affect fetal development and maternal health. It warrants provider notification to assess for underlying pathology such as preeclampsia or renal insufficiency.

Choice B rationale: Hemoglobin level of 10.2 mg/dL is slightly below the normal pregnancy range of 11 to 16 mg/dL, indicating mild anemia. However, in the context of pregnancy, especially with a known history of anemia, this value is not critically low. Iron supplementation and dietary adjustments are typically sufficient. It does not represent an acute complication unless accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, pallor, or tachycardia. Therefore, it does not require immediate provider notification.

Choice C rationale: Fasting blood glucose of 70 mg/dL is at the lower end of the normal range for pregnancy, which spans from 70 to 110 mg/dL. This value is physiologically acceptable and does not indicate hypoglycemia or gestational diabetes. During pregnancy, insulin sensitivity fluctuates, but a fasting glucose of 70 mg/dL is not pathologic. No intervention is needed unless symptomatic hypoglycemia occurs. Thus, this result is not indicative of a prenatal complication.

Choice D rationale: Hematocrit level of 32% is slightly below the normal pregnancy range of 33 to 47%, reflecting mild dilutional anemia due to plasma volume expansion. This is a common physiological adaptation in pregnancy and not necessarily pathologic. Unless accompanied by symptoms or a significant drop in hemoglobin, this value alone does not indicate a prenatal complication. Monitoring and nutritional support are appropriate, but urgent provider notification is not required.