A nurse is providing education to a client during a prenatal visit. Which of the following medications should the nurse include as contraindicated during pregnancy?

Rationale:

A. Limited hip abduction: Limited abduction of the hips in a 1-month-old can indicate developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). This finding warrants further evaluation, such as ultrasound imaging, to rule out structural abnormalities and initiate early treatment if needed.

B. Equal leg length: Equal leg length is a normal finding and does not require intervention. Leg length discrepancies are more concerning and often associated with hip dislocation or other musculoskeletal conditions.

C. Symmetric gluteal and thigh skin folds: Symmetry in the gluteal and thigh folds is a reassuring sign that typically rules out DDH. Asymmetry would be more suggestive of a hip abnormality requiring follow-up.

D. Femoral head remains in the acetabulum during the Barlow maneuver: This is a normal finding. The Barlow test assesses for hip instability, and if the femoral head remains stable within the socket, no further evaluation is needed.

Rationale:

A. Blood pressure: Orthostatic hypotension is evident from the drop in systolic and diastolic pressure when standing, indicating fluid and electrolyte imbalance. This may reflect volume depletion due to purging and requires monitoring to prevent fainting or falls.

B. Syncope: The client reports repeated fainting episodes, a red flag when paired with orthostatic hypotension and electrolyte disturbances. This suggests unstable cardiovascular status and raises the risk of injury or sudden cardiac events.

C. ECG: Sinus tachycardia with premature ventricular contractions indicates cardiac irritability likely due to electrolyte imbalance, especially hypokalemia. Continuous cardiac monitoring and correction of abnormalities are needed.

D. Albumin: An albumin level of 2.6 g/dL indicates significant malnutrition and protein deficiency, compromising immune function and wound healing. This also suggests a chronic issue requiring dietetic intervention and nutritional rehabilitation.

E. Potassium: Potassium at 3.0 mEq/L is dangerously low and a known contributor to cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Replenishment and close monitoring are critical to avoid complications such as cardiac arrest.

F. Sodium: Although sodium is only slightly low at 134 mEq/L, in the context of purging and poor intake, this could indicate dilutional hyponatremia. It increases seizure risk and needs assessment of fluid status and intake behaviors.