The nurse is aware that fibrinogen levels are increased in pregnancy. Which measure can be taken to prevent postpartum complications that result because of this increase? Have the client:
a stool softener as needed
urinate every two to three hours
eat a diet high in protein
walk
The Correct Answer is A
A) A stool softener as needed:
Fibrinogen levels are elevated during pregnancy as part of the body's natural response to the increased risk of bleeding at birth. While this helps to prevent hemorrhage, it also increases the risk of clot formation, which can lead to postpartum complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). To prevent these complications, one recommended strategy is to use a stool softener. This helps prevent constipation, which can strain the body and increase the risk of developing blood clots due to the Valsalva maneuver during straining. Stool softeners reduce the likelihood of this strain, supporting overall circulation and reducing the risk of clotting.
B) Urinate every two to three hours:
While frequent urination is important for general bladder health, particularly in the immediate postpartum period to avoid urinary retention, it is not directly related to preventing complications associated with elevated fibrinogen levels. Fibrinogen's main risk is related to clotting, and frequent urination does not affect this process.
C) Eat a diet high in protein:
While eating a balanced diet with adequate protein is essential for postpartum recovery and tissue healing, it does not directly address the increased fibrinogen levels or the potential for clotting. A high-protein diet does not significantly reduce the risks related to hypercoagulability during the postpartum period, which is primarily managed through careful monitoring and preventive measures such as using stool softeners or encouraging movement.
D) Walk:
While walking is beneficial for overall health and can help improve circulation, reducing the risk of DVT and promoting postpartum recovery, walking alone may not be sufficient to counteract the increased clotting risk from elevated fibrinogen levels. While movement is important to prevent clots, the use of stool softeners to prevent constipation is a more direct and targeted intervention for preventing strain, which could trigger clot formation. Therefore, walking, while helpful, is not the most specific measure to prevent complications related to increased fibrinogen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Fetal baseline rate increasing at least 5 beats per minute:
An increase in the fetal baseline heart rate of 5 beats per minute is typically not associated with uteroplacental insufficiency. A baseline increase could indicate early signs of fetal stimulation, such as from fetal movement or excitement, but it does not align with the characteristic response to uteroplacental insufficiency, which usually causes signs of distress like late decelerations or fetal heart rate variability.
B) A shallow deceleration occurring with the beginning of contractions:
A shallow deceleration with the onset of contractions may suggest early decelerations, which are typically caused by fetal head compression during labor. Early decelerations are not typically associated with uteroplacental insufficiency, which generally leads to later decelerations. Early decelerations are generally considered benign and do not indicate oxygen deprivation or fetal distress.
C) Fetal heart rate declining late in contraction and remaining depressed:
Late decelerations, where the fetal heart rate drops after the peak of a contraction and stays depressed afterward, are a classic sign of uteroplacental insufficiency. This pattern occurs due to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus during contractions, leading to fetal hypoxia. Late decelerations suggest compromised placental function and require prompt attention to prevent further fetal distress.
D) Variable decelerations, too unpredictable to count:
Variable decelerations, characterized by abrupt drops in fetal heart rate with varying timing and duration, are usually caused by umbilical cord compression. While these decelerations can indicate fetal distress, they are not directly linked to uteroplacental insufficiency. Uteroplacental insufficiency typically leads to late decelerations, not variable decelerations.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E"]
Explanation
A) Presence of a two-vessel umbilical cord:
The presence of a two-vessel umbilical cord (instead of the normal three vessels, which includes two arteries and one vein) is a significant finding that requires follow-up. A two-vessel cord can be associated with fetal anomalies, particularly with renal, cardiac, or chromosomal conditions. Therefore, it requires further evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions and ensure proper organ development.
B) Molding of the skull:
Molding of the skull is a normal and expected finding in newborns following a vaginal birth, especially after a long or difficult delivery. It refers to the temporary reshaping of the fetal skull bones as they overlap to pass through the birth canal. This is typically self-correcting and resolves within a few days, so no follow-up is needed for molding.
C) Asymmetry of ears:
Asymmetry of the ears can indicate congenital anomalies, such as craniofacial syndromes or other physical deformities. Although some degree of asymmetry can occur in newborns, especially in the first hours of life, persistent or significant asymmetry should be evaluated further. It may indicate an abnormality that requires follow-up or assessment by a specialist.
D) Tongue extending past the lower lip:
A tongue that extends past the lower lip is a normal finding in newborns, as babies are still developing their oral reflexes and muscle tone. This is not a cause for concern, and no follow-up is required unless other feeding issues arise. It's important to differentiate between normal tongue movements and more serious concerns like tongue-tie (ankyloglossia), but this is not indicative of a problem by itself.
E) Diminished breath sounds on one side:
Diminished breath sounds on one side of the chest can indicate a serious issue, such as a pneumothorax, diaphragmatic hernia, or other respiratory concerns. This finding warrants immediate follow-up, as the newborn could be experiencing a respiratory distress condition that needs urgent intervention and management. This is a significant finding requiring immediate evaluation.
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