A patient with no prenatal care is admitted to the labor and delivery unit.She is placed on an external fetal monitor, and an intravenous infusion is begun.
A tentative diagnosis of abruptio placentae is made.Which finding would support this diagnosis?

Answer and explanation..

The correct answer is choice C. Jitteriness.Jitteriness is a sign of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) which is common in infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) because they have high levels of insulin in their blood that lower their glucose levels after birth.Hypoglycemia can also cause other symptoms such as seizures, lethargy, poor feeding, sweating, trembling, and pale complexion.

Choice A is wrong because abdominal distention is not a typical symptom of IDM.

It can be caused by other conditions such as intestinal obstruction or infection.

Choice B is wrong because high-pitched cry is not a specific symptom of IDM.

It can be caused by many factors such as pain, hunger, or neurological problems.

Choice D is wrong because excessive drooling is not a common symptom of IDM.

It can be a sign of oral problems such as teething or infection.

Normal ranges for blood glucose in newborns are 40 to 150 mg/dL (2.2 to 8.3 mmol/L).

IDM should be monitored closely for hypoglycemia and treated promptly with glucose if needed.

The correct answer is choice B. The administration route of terbutaline will be changed from intravenous to oral.

This is because terbutaline is a medication that can be used to suppress preterm labor by relaxing the uterine smooth muscle.It can be given subcutaneously or intravenously for acute episodes of preterm labor, but it is not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of serious maternal and fetal adverse effects.Therefore, if the client’s condition stabilizes, the administration route of terbutaline will be changed from intravenous to oral, which has a lower bioavailability and less systemic effects.

Choice A is wrong because terbutaline is not usually self-administered parenterally by the client at home.It requires a trained health professional to give it as a shot under the skin or through a vein.

Choice C is wrong because the client does not need to remain in a private room without visitors until she has been without contractions for 48 hours.

This is an unnecessary restriction that may increase the client’s stress and anxiety.

The client should be encouraged to have social support and emotional comfort during this time.

Choice D is wrong because the client should not ambulate in the hallway after 12 hours without contractions.

This may stimulate uterine activity and cause a recurrence of preterm labor.

The client should follow the provider’s instructions on bed rest and activity limitations.