What is the only known cure for preeclampsia?
Administration of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) every day of the pregnancy
Delivery of the fetus
Antihypertensive medications
Magnesium sulfate
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: This is incorrect because acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), also known as aspirin, is not a cure for preeclampsia, but a preventive measure. ASA may reduce the risk of preeclampsia in some high-risk women by inhibiting platelet aggregation and improving blood flow to the placenta. However, ASA is not recommended for all pregnant women, as it may have adverse effects on the mother and the fetus, such as bleeding, premature closure of the ductus arteriosus, or fetal growth restriction.
Choice B: This is the correct answer because delivery of the fetus is the only definitive treatment for preeclampsia, as it eliminates the source of the placental factors that cause the condition. Preeclampsia is a multisystem disorder characterized by hypertension, proteinuria, and edema that occurs after 20 weeks of gestation. It is caused by abnormal placentation and endothelial dysfunction that lead to vasoconstriction, inflammation, and coagulation.
Delivery of the fetus and the placenta resolves these abnormalities and restores normal maternal physiology.
Choice C: This is incorrect because antihypertensive medications are not a cure for preeclampsia, but a symptomatic management. Antihypertensive medications may lower the blood pressure and reduce the risk of maternal complications, such as stroke, seizure, or organ damage. However, antihypertensive medications do not address the underlying cause of preeclampsia and do not improve fetal outcomes. Moreover, some antihypertensive medications are contraindicated in pregnancy due to their teratogenic effects.
Choice D: This is incorrect because magnesium sulfate is not a cure for preeclampsia, but a prophylaxis for eclampsia. Eclampsia is a severe complication of preeclampsia that involves seizures and coma. Magnesium sulfate is an anticonvulsant that prevents or treats eclamptic seizures by stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing cerebral edema. However, magnesium sulfate does not lower blood pressure or improve renal function in preeclamptic women. It also has side effects such as nausea, flushing, headache, or respiratory depression.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A: This is the correct answer because a hard and tender abdomen is a sign of concealed hemorrhage, which can lead to hypovolemic shock and fetal distress. The nurse needs to monitor the woman's blood loss, blood pressure, pulse, and fetal heart rate to detect any complications and intervene accordingly.
Choice B: This is incorrect because opioid pain medication can mask the signs of shock and fetal distress, and may also cause respiratory depression in both the mother and the fetus. Pain relief should be given after assessing the woman's condition and consulting with the physician.
Choice C: This is incorrect because documenting the findings is not a priority action. The nurse needs to act quickly to prevent further blood loss and fetal compromise, and report the findings to the physician.
Choice D: This is incorrect because relaxation techniques may not be effective in reducing the pain and anxiety caused by abruptio placentae. The nurse should provide emotional support and reassurance to the woman, but also focus on assessing and managing her physical condition.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A) Weight gain of 0.5 kg during the past 2 weeks: This is a normal weight gain for a pregnant woman and does not indicate preeclampsia.
Choice B) Pitting pedal edema at the end of the day: This is a common symptom of pregnancy and does not necessarily indicate preeclampsia. It can be relieved by elevating the legs and wearing compression stockings.
Choice C) Blood pressure increase to 138/86 mm Hg: This is a mild elevation of blood pressure and does not meet the criteria for preeclampsia, which is defined as a systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher on two occasions at least four hours apart.
Choice D) Dipstick value of 3+ for protein in her urine: This is a sign of significant proteinuria, which is one of the main features of preeclampsia. Proteinuria is defined as a urinary protein excretion of 300 mg or more in 24 hours or a dipstick reading of 1+ or higher. A dipstick value of 3+ indicates severe proteinuria and requires immediate attention and treatment. This woman has the highest risk of developing complications from preeclampsia, such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, placental abruption, or fetal growth restriction . Therefore, she should be seen by the nurse first.
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