A woman with a history of congestive heart disease is 36 weeks pregnant. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the primary health care practitioner?
Weight gain of 4 pounds in a month.
Dyspnea with walking.
Presence of striae gravidarum.
Patellar reflexes of +2.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Weight gain of 4 pounds in a month. A weight gain of 4 pounds in a month is within the expected range for pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. While rapid or excessive weight gain could indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure, this amount alone is not immediately concerning.
B. Dyspnea with walking. Dyspnea on exertion in a pregnant woman with congestive heart disease is a serious concern. It may indicate pulmonary congestion, worsening heart failure, or reduced cardiac output. Any increasing shortness of breath, especially with minimal activity, should be reported immediately to prevent complications like pulmonary edema or decompensated heart failure.
C. Presence of striae gravidarum. Striae gravidarum (stretch marks) are a normal skin change in pregnancy due to rapid growth and stretching of the skin. They are not related to congestive heart disease and do not require reporting.
D. Patellar reflexes of +2. A +2 deep tendon reflex (DTR) is normal and does not indicate worsening cardiac status. Reflex abnormalities are more relevant in conditions such as preeclampsia, where hyperreflexia can signal worsening disease, but they are not a concern in heart disease.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Professor Proctor emphasizes safety as the highest priority while traveling, including when coming to class. Ensuring that students arrive safely is considered more important than strict punctuality.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
While many women are able to get pregnant again after an ectopic pregnancy, it is not guaranteed. The ability to conceive again depends on various factors, such as:
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The extent of damage to the fallopian tube.
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Whether one or both tubes are still functional.
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The treatment used (e.g., methotrexate vs. surgery).
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Any underlying fertility issues.
It is important to be honest but reassuring, explaining that many women do go on to have healthy pregnancies, but future fertility can be affected and should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Saying she "absolutely will" get pregnant again is inaccurate and potentially misleading.
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