A postpartum client on magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia suddenly developed severe headaches, floating spots in the field of vision, and right upper quadrant abdominal pain.
Vital signs are BP= 164/100, HR= 96, RR= 16. Laboratory results show liver enzymes are AST = 890, ALT= 980, and platelets = 25,000.This client most likely developed which condition?
HELLP Syndrome.
Postpartum hypertension.
Hypertension in pregnancy.
Superimposed preeclampsia.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The client’s symptoms and lab results are consistent with HELLP Syndrome, a severe form of preeclampsia. HELLP stands for Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count. The client’s elevated liver enzymes and low platelets, along with the reported symptoms, are indicative of this condition.
Choice B rationale
While the client’s high blood pressure could suggest Postpartum hypertension, the presence of severe headaches, visual disturbances, right upper quadrant pain, and abnormal lab results point more towards HELLP Syndrome.
Choice C rationale
Hypertension in pregnancy could be a possibility, but it does not explain all of the client’s symptoms and lab results, particularly the elevated liver enzymes and low platelets.
Choice D rationale
Superimposed preeclampsia is a condition where a pregnant woman with chronic hypertension develops preeclampsia. However, the client’s severe symptoms and lab results are more indicative of HELLP Syndrome.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Continuous contractions lasting 2 minutes could indicate uterine tetany, which could lead to uterine rupture, a life-threatening situation that requires immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering oxytocin infusion is usually done to stimulate uterine contractions and prevent postpartum hemorrhage. However, it’s not the first action to take when the client’s blood pressure is low.
Choice B rationale
Evaluating the firmness of the uterus is crucial in this situation. A soft or “boggy” uterus could indicate uterine atony, a condition that can lead to serious postpartum hemorrhage. This could be the cause of the client’s low blood pressure.
Choice C rationale
Initiating oxygen therapy by non-rebreather mask can help increase the client’s oxygen saturation levels, but it doesn’t address the underlying cause of the low blood pressure.
Choice D rationale
Obtaining a type and crossmatch is important if the client needs a blood transfusion. However, it’s not the first action to take. The nurse should first assess for possible causes of the low blood pressure.
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