A nurse on an antepartum unit is caring for a 28-year-old gravida 1 para 0 female client at 32 weeks of gestation.
Complete the following sentence by using the list of options. The nurse should identify that _______ are findings that require follow-up.
Contractions every 5 minutes
Fetal heart rate of 140/min
Clear mucus discharge
Closed cervix
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should identify that contractions occurring every 5 minutes require follow-up for several reasons:
- Preterm Labor Risk: At 32 weeks of gestation, regular contractions every 5 minutes could indicate the onset of preterm labor. This is concerning because preterm labor can lead to preterm birth, which poses significant risks to the baby's health and development.
- Frequency and Intensity: These contractions are occurring frequently (every 5 minutes) and are described as stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions. This frequency and the strength of the contractions are unusual for Braxton Hicks, which are typically irregular and less intense.
- Effacement and Cervical Changes: Although the cervix is closed, it is 80% effaced. Effacement means the cervix is thinning, which, in combination with regular contractions, may indicate that the body is preparing for labor.
- Urinary Leakage: The client also reported urinary leakage earlier in the day, which could be a sign of ruptured membranes (water breaking). This, combined with regular contractions, increases the need for careful monitoring.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Holding the newborn during the initial visit may make the older sibling feel left out or jealous. Encouraging involvement with the new baby may be more beneficial.
Choice B rationale
Spending individual time with the older sibling helps them feel valued and ensures they do not feel neglected, facilitating better acceptance of the newborn.
Choice C rationale
Having the older sibling purchase a gift for the newborn can create a positive association, but it is less impactful than ensuring individual time and attention.
Choice D rationale
Postponing the introduction until discharge can increase feelings of jealousy or resentment, as the older sibling might feel excluded from the new family dynamic during a crucial time.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A respiratory rate of 34/min is within the normal range for a newborn, which is typically between 30 to 60 breaths per minute. This does not indicate immediate distress.
Choice B rationale
Acrocyanosis, or bluish discoloration of the hands and feet, is common in newborns and usually resolves within the first few days of life. It is not a sign of critical illness.
Choice C rationale
Caput succedaneum, a swelling of the soft tissues of the newborn's scalp, is a common and benign condition that resolves on its own within a few days. It does not require immediate medical attention.
Choice D rationale
An axillary temperature of 36°C (96.8°F) is considered low and may indicate hypothermia in a newborn. Hypothermia can lead to serious complications, so this newborn requires immediate assessment and intervention to stabilize their body temperature.
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