A patient who is 33 weeks pregnant has been experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions.Which information should the nurse include in responding to this patient?

The correct answer is choice C. Auscultate the fetal heart sounds.This is because spontaneous rupture of membranes (SROM) may be associated with fetal distress or cord prolapse, and the nurse should assess the fetal well-being as soon as possible.Fetal heart sounds can indicate the presence of fetal bradycardia, tachycardia, or decelerations, which may require immediate intervention.

Choice A is wrong because checking the specific gravity of the amniotic fluid is not a priority action after SROM.The specific gravity can help differentiate amniotic fluid from urine, but it is not as reliable as other methods such as nitrazine paper test or visual inspection.

Choice B is wrong because providing dry linens for the patient is a comfort measure, but not a priority action after SROM.The nurse should first ensure the safety of the fetus and the mother before attending to their comfort needs.

Choice D is wrong because notifying the health care provider is an important action after SROM, but not the first one.The nurse should gather relevant data such as fetal heart rate, maternal vital signs, and characteristics of the fluid before contacting the provider.

The correct answer is choice C. Stretching your legs and pointing your toes toward your knee will bring relief from the leg cramps.This is because stretching can help relax the muscle and ease the spasm.

Choice A is wrong because elevating your legs may not help with leg cramps, and may actually worsen them by reducing blood flow to the muscles.

Choice B is wrong because massaging your legs may not be enough to relieve the cramps, and may also cause more pain if done too hard or too fast.

Choice D is wrong because putting a cold compress on the calf of your leg may not be effective for leg cramps, and may also cause more discomfort or inflammation.

Leg cramps are common during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimester.They are caused by various factors, such as pregnancy weight gain, changes in blood circulation, pressure on the nerves and blood vessels, nutrient deficiency, lack of exercise, or fluid buildup in your legs.To prevent or reduce leg cramps, you should drink plenty of water, stay active, eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium, avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time, wear comfortable shoes and socks, and sleep on your left side with a pillow under or between your legs.

If leg cramps persist or become severe, you should consult your healthcare provider for possible treatment options.