The prenatal clinic nurse is monitoring women for preeclampsia.
If all four women were in the clinic at the same time, which one should the nurse see first?
A dipstick value of 3+ for protein in her urine.
Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day.
Blood pressure increase to 138/86 mm Hg.
Weight gain of 0.5 kg during the past 2 weeks.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A dipstick value of 3+ for protein in the urine is a significant indicator of proteinuria, a key diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is characterized by new-onset hypertension and proteinuria or other signs of end-organ damage in a previously normotensive pregnant woman. A 3+ protein level suggests substantial protein spillage into the urine, necessitating immediate attention to assess the severity of preeclampsia and prevent potential complications for both the mother and the fetus. Normal urine protein is typically negative to trace amounts.
Choice B rationale
Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day can be a common finding in pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the veins in the legs. While edema can be associated with preeclampsia, it is not a primary diagnostic criterion and can occur in normal pregnancies. Therefore, isolated pedal edema without other signs of preeclampsia is less concerning than significant proteinuria.
Choice C rationale
A blood pressure reading of 138/86 mm Hg is mildly elevated and falls within the range for stage 1 hypertension. While hypertension is a diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia, this isolated reading without a significant increase from baseline or other preeclampsia symptoms may not be the most urgent concern compared to significant proteinuria. Preeclampsia diagnosis requires a blood pressure of ≥140 mm Hg systolic or ≥90 mm Hg diastolic on two occasions at least 4 hours apart after 20 weeks of gestation in a previously normotensive woman.
Choice D rationale
A weight gain of 0.5 kg (approximately 1.1 pounds) over two weeks is within the expected range for weight gain during pregnancy. While rapid or excessive weight gain can be a sign of fluid retention associated with preeclampsia, a modest gain of 0.5 kg over two weeks is not a primary indicator of the condition and is less concerning than significant proteinuria.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The 1-hour glucose tolerance test is typically performed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation to screen for gestational diabetes. This screening involves measuring the client's blood glucose level one hour after consuming a 50-gram glucose load. A normal result is generally considered to be a blood glucose level below 130-140 mg/dL.
Choice B rationale
Rubella titer is usually assessed early in pregnancy, ideally during the first prenatal visit, to determine the woman's immunity to rubella. If the woman is not immune, vaccination is typically offered postpartum to prevent infection in subsequent pregnancies, as rubella infection during pregnancy can cause serious congenital defects.
Choice C rationale
Sexually transmitted disease testing is ideally conducted at the initial prenatal visit to identify and treat any infections early in pregnancy, reducing the risk of transmission to the fetus and other complications. While repeat testing may be indicated based on risk factors, it is not a routine test specifically scheduled for the 24-week appointment for all clients.
Choice D rationale
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) culture is typically performed later in pregnancy, usually between 35 and 37 weeks of gestation, to determine if the woman is colonized with GBS. This is important for intrapartum management to prevent neonatal GBS infection.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Limiting the newborn's intake of milk is contraindicated in the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia. Adequate hydration and frequent feedings are essential to promote bilirubin excretion through stool and urine. Decreased intake can exacerbate dehydration and worsen jaundice. Normal feeding frequency for newborns is typically every 2-3 hours.
Choice B rationale
Feeding the newborn every six hours is not an appropriate intervention for a jaundiced infant receiving phototherapy. Frequent feedings, typically every 2-3 hours, are necessary to promote bilirubin excretion. Prolonged intervals between feedings can lead to dehydration and hinder the effectiveness of phototherapy.
Choice C rationale
Turning the infant every two hours is a crucial nursing intervention during phototherapy. This ensures that all body surfaces are exposed to the ultraviolet light, maximizing the breakdown of bilirubin in the skin. Consistent exposure of all areas helps to lower bilirubin levels more effectively.
Choice D rationale
Applying an oil-based lotion to the newborn's skin during phototherapy is contraindicated. Oil-based lotions can create a barrier on the skin, reducing the penetration and effectiveness of the ultraviolet light. Only water-based lotions, if necessary, should be used sparingly and with caution, as some may absorb UV light.
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