The nurse is calculating the estimated date of confinement (EDC) using Nagele's rule for a client whose last menstrual period started on December 1. Which date is most accurate?

Choice A rationale:

A respiratory rate of 10 bpm (breaths per minute) is significantly below the normal range for an adult but is within the normal range for a newborn. Since the question does not specify the client's age, this information is insufficient to identify it as a complication of magnesium sulfate administration.

Choice B rationale:

A blood pressure of 148/94 is elevated and could be a complication of magnesium sulfate administration. Magnesium sulfate is used to manage pregnancy-induced hypertension, so if the blood pressure remains high or increases further, it could indicate an inadequate response to the treatment or a potential complication.

Choice C rationale:

Deep tendon reflexes of +2 are within the normal range and are not indicative of a complication related to magnesium sulfate administration. In fact, magnesium sulfate can cause muscle weakness and decreased deep tendon reflexes, so an absence of reflexes or extremely diminished reflexes might be a cause for concern.

Choice D rationale:

A urine output of 70 ml/hour is within the normal range for an adult, but without additional information, it is not indicative of a complication related to magnesium sulfate administration. Monitoring urine output is essential to assess renal function and fluid balance, but in this context, it does not provide specific information about the effects of magnesium sulfate.

The correct answer is choiceb. Fetal movement palpated by the nurse-midwife.

Choice A rationale:

A positive pregnancy test is considered a probable sign of pregnancy, not a positive sign. Probable signs are those that strongly suggest pregnancy but are not definitive.

Choice B rationale:

Fetal movement palpated by the nurse-midwife is a positive sign of pregnancy. Positive signs are those that provide definitive evidence of pregnancy, such as fetal heart tones heard by a Doppler device or ultrasound visualization of the fetus.

Choice C rationale:

Braxton Hicks contractions are considered a probable sign of pregnancy. These are irregular, painless contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy but do not confirm pregnancy definitively.

Choice D rationale:

Quickening, or the first feeling of fetal movement by the mother, is a presumptive sign of pregnancy. Presumptive signs are those that the woman experiences and reports, which may suggest pregnancy but are not conclusive.