A nurse is teaching a client with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) regarding self-care activities. Which activities should the nurse include in her teaching?

Choice A reason: "I know I am at increased risk to develop type 2 diabetes." is a correct statement, because it indicates that the client understands the long-term implications of gestational diabetes. The client should be aware that gestational diabetes increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life, and that she should have regular screening and follow-up.

Choice B reason: "I will take my glyburide daily with breakfast." is a correct statement, because it indicates that the client understands the medication regimen for gestational diabetes. The client should take glyburide, a sulfonylurea that lowers blood glucose levels, as prescribed by the provider, and monitor her blood glucose levels before and after meals.

Choice C reason: "I will reduce my exercise schedule to 3 days a week." is an incorrect statement, because it indicates that the client does not understand the importance of physical activity for gestational diabetes. The client should exercise at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, unless contraindicated by the provider. Exercise can help improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose levels, and prevent excessive weight gain.

Choice D reason: "I should limit my carbohydrates to 50% of caloric intake." is a correct statement, because it indicates that the client understands the dietary guidelines for gestational diabetes. The client should consume a balanced diet that provides adequate but not excessive amounts of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, and that is consistent in carbohydrate intake throughout the day.

Choice A reason: Providing a dark, quiet environment is an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it can help reduce the client's blood pressure and prevent seizures.

Choice B reason: Evaluating neurologic status every 12 hr is not an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is not frequent enough. The nurse should assess the client's neurologic status every 2 to 4 hr, or more often if indicated, to detect signs of cerebral edema or eclampsia.

Choice C reason: Assessing respiratory status every 8 hr is not an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is not frequent enough. The nurse should monitor the client's respiratory status every 1 to 2 hr, or more often if indicated, to detect signs of pulmonary edema or respiratory depression.

Choice D reason: Ensuring that calcium gluconate is readily available is an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity. The nurse should have calcium gluconate on hand and know how to administer it in case of an emergency.

Choice E reason: Administering magnesium sulfate IV is an appropriate action for the nurse to implement, because it is the drug of choice for preventing and treating seizures in clients with severe gestational hypertension. The nurse should follow the protocol for magnesium sulfate administration and monitor the client's vital signs, urine output, reflexes, and serum magnesium levels.