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 A
Explanation
In this situation, the practical nurse (PN) should coach the client to take slow, deep breaths during each contraction. The client has already been medicated with butorphanol and promethazine for pain relief and it may not be appropriate to administer another dose at this time. Instead, the PN can provide non- pharmacological pain relief measures such as coaching the client to use breathing techniques to help manage the pain during contractions. The other actions listed may also be appropriate in some situations, but coaching the client to use breathing techniques is the most appropriate action in this situation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
If the client in active labor expresses a desire to empty her bladder and her vaginal exam is unchanged, the practical nurse (PN) should assist her up to the bathroom. An empty bladder can help facilitate labor progress.
Reviewing the fetal heart rate pattern (A) is important, but it is not the most appropriate action in response to the client's request to empty her bladder. Checking the perineum for changes in "show" or discharge (C) is also important, but it is not the most appropriate action in this situation. Obtaining a straight catheter kit to empty the client's bladder (D) may be necessary if she is unable to empty her bladder on her own, but assisting her up to the bathroom should be attempted first.
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