A woman who is trying to get pregnant tells the nurse that she was very disappointed several months ago when she was informed that her positive pregnancy test was a false positive. Which method of determining pregnancy provides the greatest degree of accuracy?

Choice A rationale

Hydralazine decreases blood pressure by vasodilation, improving renal perfusion and function. Enhanced kidney function promotes diuresis, balancing fluid levels and reducing hypertension.

Choice B rationale

While controlling blood pressure indirectly benefits liver health, hydralazine's primary effect on vasodilation does not directly support liver function.

Choice C rationale

Hydralazine primarily lowers blood pressure through vasodilation. Preventing arrhythmias is more directly associated with medications affecting cardiac conduction rather than vasodilators.

Choice D rationale

Lowering cholesterol levels is not a direct effect of hydralazine. Its primary action is reducing blood pressure through vascular smooth muscle relaxation, decreasing hypertension.

Choice A rationale

Administering a bolus of 2 ml/kg glucose 10% IV is important for hypoglycemia management, providing rapid glucose delivery. Normal blood glucose level for neonates is 45-90 mg/dL. Severe hypoglycemia requires immediate intervention.

Choice B rationale

Immediate feeding can stabilize blood glucose levels by providing a sustained energy source. Breastfeeding or formula feeding aids in maintaining glucose homeostasis, supporting neonatal metabolic needs and preventing hypoglycemia.

Choice C rationale

An echocardiogram is a non-invasive diagnostic test used to evaluate cardiac structure and function. It is not a priority intervention compared to managing hypoglycemia or respiratory distress, as it does not address immediate neonatal needs.

Choice D rationale

Monitoring for respiratory distress involves observing signs such as tachypnea, grunting, nasal flaring, and retractions. Early identification of respiratory issues is crucial in neonates to prevent complications like respiratory failure.

Choice E rationale

Applying dextrose gel inside the baby’s cheek can quickly raise blood glucose levels in cases of mild hypoglycemia. It is an effective short-term intervention for stabilizing blood glucose while preparing for further treatment.

Choice F rationale

Monitoring temperature every 30 minutes helps detect hypothermia or hyperthermia. Normal neonatal temperature is 36.5-37.5°C (97.7-99.5°F). Maintaining thermal stability is vital to prevent metabolic complications in newborns.

Choice G rationale

Contacting respiratory therapy for arterial blood gas (ABG) and oxygen therapy ensures proper oxygenation and ventilation. ABGs provide critical information on acid-base status, and oxygen therapy supports adequate tissue oxygenation.

Choice H rationale

Keeping the neonate in a warmer with bilirubin lights (phototherapy) treats hyperbilirubinemia by converting bilirubin into a water-soluble form for excretion. Normal bilirubin levels are <12 mg/dL in term neonates. It is not an immediate priority.

Choice I rationale

Transferring to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) provides specialized care, including advanced monitoring and interventions for critically ill neonates. NICUs have resources for managing complex medical conditions and ensuring optimal outcomes.

Choice J rationale

Measuring blood glucose levels is essential for assessing neonatal glucose status, especially in high-risk infants. Normal blood glucose levels for neonates are 45-90 mg/dL. Identifying hypoglycemia is critical for prompt treatment.