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 B
Explanation
Based on the assessment findings, the infant is at the greatest risk for developing anemia due to a lack of iron. Infants should begin eating solid foods that are rich in iron at around 6 months of age to ensure they are getting enough of this important nutrient. Drinking whole milk from a bottle can displace other foods that are rich in iron and contribute to the development of anemia.
Option A, allergies related to whole milk, is a possibility but not the greatest risk in this situation.
Option C, obesity due to increased calorie count, is also a possibility but not the greatest risk.
Option D, lactose intolerance due to whole milk, is a possibility but not the greatest risk in this situation.
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