A patient is in preterm labor at 30 weeks gestation.
Her OB orders antenatal steroids.
The order is for the nurse to administer betamethasone IM and to repeat the dose after 2 hours.
Betamethasone is available as 4mg/mL in 10 mL vials.
How many mL will the nurse draw up in the syringe for each dose?
0.5 mL
1 mL
1.5 mL
3 mL
The Correct Answer is D
Step 1 is to calculate the volume of betamethasone to be drawn up for each dose. The order is to administer betamethasone IM and to repeat the dose after 2 hours. Betamethasone is available as 4mg/mL. Therefore, to administer a dose of 12mg, the nurse would need to draw up 12mg ÷ 4mg/mL = 3mL for each dose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The correct transcription of two tenths of a milligram is 0.2 mg. This format avoids any potential confusion that could lead to a medication error.
Choice B rationale
While 0.20 mg is technically correct, it is not the preferred format. The trailing zero after the decimal point is unnecessary and could potentially lead to confusion.
Choice C rationale
20 mg is not correct. This is 100 times the intended dose of two tenths of a milligram, and could lead to a serious medication error.
Choice D rationale
2 mg is not correct. This is 10 times the intended dose of two tenths of a milligram, and could lead to a medication error.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Given the client’s symptoms and the fact that she is 34 weeks pregnant, the client is most likely experiencing preeclampsia. One of the severe complications of preeclampsia is eclampsia, which is characterized by the onset of seizures. Therefore, implementing seizure precautions would be an appropriate action for the nurse to take. The nurse should monitor the following parameters to assess the client’s progress: Blood pressure readings: Regular monitoring can help detect any sudden increases, which could indicate worsening preeclampsia. Urine protein levels: Protein in the urine is a common sign of preeclampsia and should be monitored regularly.
Choice B rationale
Checking deep tendon reflexes every hour could be part of the care plan for a client with preeclampsia. Hyperreflexia can be a sign of worsening preeclampsia and impending seizure activity.
Choice C rationale
Methyldopa is a medication that can be used to control blood pressure in pregnant women. However, the question does not provide information that the client has been prescribed this medication.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring neurologic status is important in a client with preeclampsia due to the risk of eclampsia, which can cause seizures and other neurologic complications. However, implementing seizure precautions is a more immediate action to address the client’s condition.
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