A woman at 12 weeks' gestation comes to the clinic for her first prenatal visit.

After completing a health history, the nurse should discuss which topic about pregnancy at this initial visit?

Choice A rationale:

The client's statement, "I should avoid foods that are high in vitamin K," indicates an understanding of the medication. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Consistent intake of vitamin K-containing foods helps maintain a stable INR (International Normalized Ratio) and warfarin's effectiveness. Clients on warfarin should be educated about avoiding drastic changes in their vitamin K intake.

Choice B rationale:

Taking warfarin with food or on an empty stomach doesn't significantly impact its efficacy. Therefore, this statement is not indicative of the client's understanding of the medication.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "I should report any unusual bleeding or bruising to my provider" is important but doesn't specifically reflect an understanding of warfarin. It's a general caution for anyone taking anticoagulants.

Choice D rationale:

While it's important to avoid excessive use of medications like aspirin that can increase the risk of bleeding, this statement doesn't directly demonstrate an understanding of warfarin itself.

Choice A rationale:

A pH level of 7.35 to 7.45 and HCO3- level of 22 to 26 mEq/L indicate a resolution of ketoacidosis. The normal pH range for the body is 7.35 to 7.45, and a return to this range indicates that the body’s acid-base balance has been restored. The bicarbonate (HCO3-) level is a measure of the metabolic component of the body’s acid-base balance, and the normal range is 22 to 26 mEq/L. A return to this range indicates that the metabolic acidosis caused by the ketoacidosis has been resolved.

Choice B rationale:

A pH level of 7.25 to 7.35 and HCO3- level of 18 to 22 mEq/L would indicate that the client is still in a state of mild acidosis, as the pH is below the normal range and the bicarbonate level is also slightly low, indicating a metabolic acidosis.

Choice C rationale:

A pH level of 7.15 to 7.25 and HCO3- level of 14 to 18 mEq/L would indicate a moderate acidosis. Both the pH and bicarbonate levels are significantly below their normal ranges, indicating a significant disruption in the body’s acid-base balance.

Choice D rationale:

A pH level of 7.05 to 7.15 and HCO3- level of 10 to 14 mEq/L would indicate severe acidosis, which would be life-threatening if not corrected. Both the pH and bicarbonate levels are far below their normal ranges, indicating a severe disruption in the body’s acid-base balance. In conclusion, choice A is correct because it represents values within the normal ranges for both pH and bicarbonate, indicating a resolution of ketoacidosis.