The practical nurse (PN) is caring for a client who has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus. Which complication should the PN recognize as the greatest risk to the fetus if euglycemia is not maintained?
Low birth weight.
Preterm birth.
Cleft palate.
Macrosomic newborn.
The Correct Answer is D
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. If euglycemia, or normal blood glucose levels, is not maintained during pregnancy, the fetus can be at risk for a number of complications. The greatest risk to the fetus in this situation is the development of a macrosomic newborn, or a newborn that is significantly larger than average. This occurs because the excess glucose in the mother's bloodstream is passed on to the fetus, leading to excessive fetal growth.
Macrosomia can lead to complications during delivery, such as shoulder dystocia, and can increase the risk of injury to both the mother and the baby. While low birth weight and preterm birth are also potential complications of GDM, macrosomia is considered the greatest risk to the fetus if euglycemia is not maintained. Cleft palate is not typically associated with GDM.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The practical nurse (PN) should recognize that the client who is 2-weeks postpartum and presents with feelings of irritability, severe mood swings, and an irrational sense of her ability to keep her infant safe may be exhibiting symptoms of postpartum psychosis. Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious condition that can develop after childbirth and is characterized by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and severe mood swings. The client's belief that her infant is going to die and that there is nothing she can do to save her baby may indicate the presence of delusions. The PN should report these symptoms to the appropriate healthcare provider for further assessment and intervention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Feeling sad or having a depressed mood is a common symptom of depression. Asking the client if they often feel sad can help the practical nurse (PN) assess for depression.
While recent stresses (A), sleep changes (B), and dietary habits (C) may also be relevant to the client's situation, asking if the client often feels sad is the most important question for the PN to ask in order to further assess for depression.
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