OB- Chapter 19
A pregnant woman with type 2 diabetes is scheduled for a laboratory test of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C). What does the nurse tell the client is a normal level for this test?
5.7-6.4
The nurse is comforting and listening to a young couple who just suffered a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage). When asked why this happened, which reason should the nurse share as a common cause?
Chromosomal abnormality
A patient is admitted with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy. For what should the nurse anticipate preparing the patient?
Immediate surgery
The nurse is identifying nursing diagnoses for a client with gestational hypertension. Which diagnosis would be the most appropriate for this client?
Ineffective tissue perfusion related to vasoconstriction of blood vessels
A woman is being closely monitored and treated for severe preeclampsia with magnesium sulfate. Which finding would alert the nurse to the development of magnesium toxicity in this client?
diminished reflexes
A 28-year-old client with a history of endometriosis presents to the emergency department with severe abdominal pain and nausea and vomiting. The client also reports her periods are irregular with the last one being 2 months ago. The nurse prepares to assess for which possible cause for this client's complaints?
ectopic pregnancy
A nurse is conducting a refresher program for a group of perinatal nurses. Part of the program involves a discussion of HELLP. The nurse determines that the group needs additional teaching when they identify which aspect as a part of HELLP?
elevated lipoproteins
A nurse is monitoring a client with PROM who is in labor and observes meconium in the amniotic fluid. What does the observation of meconium indicate?
fetal distress related to hypoxia
The nurse is caring for a pregnant client with fallopian tube rupture. Which intervention is the priority for this client?
Monitor the client's vital signs and bleeding.
A client comes to the clinic for an evaluation. The client is at 22 weeks' gestation. After reviewing a client's history, which factor would the nurse identify as placing her at risk for preeclampsia? A. Her mother had preeclampsia during pregnancy. B. Client has a twin sister. C. Her sister-in-law had gestational hypertension. D. This is the client's second pregnancy.
A. Her mother had preeclampsia during pregnancy. Rationale: A family history of preeclampsia, such as a mother or sister, is considered a risk factor for the client. Having a twin sister or having a sister-in-law with gestational hypertension would not increase the client's risk. If the client had a history of preeclampsia in her first pregnancy, then she would be at risk in her second pregnancy. Reference: p. 683
While assessing a pregnant woman, the nurse suspects that the client may be at risk for hydramnios. Which information would the nurse use to support this suspicion? Select all that apply. A. history of diabetes B. reports of shortness of breath C. identifiable fetal parts on abdominal palpation D. difficulty obtaining fetal heart rate E. fundal height below that for expected gestational age
A. history of diabetes B. reports of shortness of breath D. difficulty obtaining fetal heart rate Rationale: Factors such as maternal diabetes or multiple gestations place the woman at risk for hydramnios. In addition, there is a discrepancy between fundal height and gestational age, such that a rapid growth of the uterus is noted. Shortness of breath may result from overstretching of the uterus due to the increased amount of amniotic fluid. Often, fetal parts are difficult to palpate and fetal heart rate is difficult to obtain because of the excess fluid present. Reference: p. 694
A woman in her 20s has experienced a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) at 10 weeks' gestation and asks the nurse at the hospital what went wrong. She is concerned that she did something that caused her to lose her baby. The nurse can reassure the woman by explaining that the most common cause of miscarriage in the first trimester is related to which factor?
Chromosomal defects in the fetus
A pregnant client with preeclampsia is being treated with intravenous magnesium sulfate. The nurse assesses the client's deep tendon reflexes and grades them as 4+. The nurse notifies the health care provider about this finding, describing them using which term to ensure accurate communication? A. Absent B. Average C. Brisk D. Clonus
D. Clonus Rationale: The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a division of the National Institutes of Health, published a scale in the early 1990s that, though subjective, is used widely today. It grades reflexes from 0 to 4+. Grades 2+ and 3+ are considered normal, and grades 0 which indicates an absent reflex and 4 which indicates clonus may indicate pathology. Because these are subjective assessments, to improve communication of reflex results, condensed descriptor categories such as absent, average, brisk, or clonus should be used rather than numeric codes. A 4+ grade indicates clonus which is the presence of rhythmic involuntary contractions, most often at the foot or ankle. Sustained clonus confirms central nervous system involvement. Reference: p. 690
It is determined that a client's blood Rh is negative and her partner's is Rh positive. To help prevent Rh isoimmunization, the nurse would expect to administer Rho(D) immune globulin at which time? A. at 32 weeks' gestation and immediately before discharge B. 24 hours before birth and 24 hours after birth C. in the first trimester and within 2 hours of birth D. at 28 weeks' gestation and again within 72 hours after birth
D. at 28 weeks' gestation and again within 72 hours after birth Rationale: To prevent isoimmunization, the woman should receive Rho(D) immune globulin at 28 weeks and again within 72 hours after birth. Reference: p. 693
A primigravida 21-year-old client at 24 weeks' gestation has a 2-year history of HIV. As the nurse explains the various options for delivery, which factor should the nurse point out will influence the decision for a vaginal birth?
The viral load
A client who is HIV-positive is in her second trimester and remains asymptomatic. She voices concern about her newborn's risk for the infection. Which statement by the nurse would be most appropriate? "Wait until after the infant is born, and then something can be done." "Antibodies cross the placenta and provide immunity to the newborn." "Antiretroviral medications are available to help reduce the risk of transmission." "You'll probably have a cesarean birth to prevent exposing your newborn."
"Antiretroviral medications are available to help reduce the risk of transmission."
A pregnant woman with diabetes at 10 weeks' gestation has a glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level of 13%. At this time the nurse should be most concerned about which possible fetal outcome?
congenital anomalies
A woman with an incomplete abortion is to receive misoprostol. The woman asks the nurse, "Why am I getting this drug?" The nurse responds to the client, integrating understanding that this drug achieves which effect?
ensures passage of all the products of conception
A nurse is providing care to a client who has been diagnosed with a common benign form of gestational trophoblastic disease. The nurse identifies this as:
hydatidiform mole.
A pregnant woman has just found out that she is having twin girls. She asks the nurse the difference between fraternal and identical twins. The nurse explains that with one set of twins there is fertilization of two ova, and with the other set one fertilized ovum splits. What type of twins result from the split ovum?
identical
The nurse is caring for a pregnant woman who is struggling with controlling her gestational diabetes mellitus. What effect does the nurse predict this situation may have on the fetus?
Grow to an unusually large size
An infant was born at term but has intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). What findings in the infant's history would contribute to this problem? Select all that apply. Daily maternal exercise Maternal smoking Maternal heartburn Parents small in stature Intrauterine infection of the fetus
Maternal smoking Intrauterine infection of the fetus
A patient having an examination to check the placement of an intrauterine device (IUD) is diagnosed as being pregnant. For which action should the nurse prepare the patient at this time?
Removal of the IUD
A client at 37 weeks' gestation presents to the emergency department with a BP 150/108 mm Hg, 1+ pedal edema, 1+ proteinuria, and normal deep tendon reflexes. Which assessment should the nurse prioritize as the client is administered magnesium sulfate IV?
Respiratory rate
A woman at 8 weeks' gestation is admitted for ectopic pregnancy. She is asking why this has occurred. The nurse knows that which factor is a known risk factor for ectopic pregnancy?
use of IUD for contraception
A client at 11 weeks' gestation experiences pregnancy loss. The client asks the nurse if the bleeding and cramping that occurred during the miscarriage were caused by working long hours in a stressful environment. What is the most appropriate response from the nurse?
"I can understand your need to find an answer to what caused this. Let's talk about this further."
A client with a history of cervical insufficiency is seen for reports of pink-tinged discharge and pelvic pressure. The primary care provider decides to perform a cervical cerclage. The nurse teaches the client about the procedure. Which client response indicates that the teaching has been effective? "Staples are put in the cervix to prevent it from dilating." "Purse-string sutures are placed in the cervix to prevent it from dilating." "The cervix is glued shut so no amniotic fluid can escape." "A cervical cap is placed so no amniotic fluid can escape."
"Purse-string sutures are placed in the cervix to prevent it from dilating."
The nurse is caring for a pregnant woman determined to be at high risk for gestational diabetes. The nurse prepares to rescreen this client at which time frame?
24 to 28 weeks
A woman is receiving magnesium sulfate as part of her treatment for severe preeclampsia. The nurse is monitoring the woman's serum magnesium levels. The nurse determines that the drug is at a therapeutic level based on which result?
4-7 mEq/L
A nurse is teaching a woman with mild preeclampsia about important areas that she needs to monitor at home. The nurse determines that the teaching was successful based on which statements by the woman? Select all that apply. A. "I should check my blood pressure twice a day." B. "I will weigh myself once a week." C. "I should complete a fetal kick count each day." D. "I will check my urine for protein four times a day." E. "I'll call my health care provider if I have burning when I urinate."
A. "I should check my blood pressure twice a day." C. "I should complete a fetal kick count each day." E. "I'll call my health care provider if I have burning when I urinate." Rationale: The client should take her blood pressure twice daily, check and record weight daily, perform urine dipstick checks for protein twice daily, record the number of fetal kicks daily, and notify her health care provider if she experiences burning on urination. Reference: p. 687
After teaching a woman who has had an evacuation for gestational trophoblastic disease (hydatidiform mole or molar pregnancy) about her condition, which statement indicates that the nurse's teaching was successful? A. "I will be sure to avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 year." B. "My intake of iron will have to be closely monitored for 6 months." C. "My blood pressure will continue to be increased for about 6 more months." D. "I won't use my birth control pills for at least a year or two."
A. "I will be sure to avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 year." Rationale: After evacuation of trophoblastic tissue (hydatiform mole), long-term follow-up is necessary to make sure any remaining trophoblastic tissue does not become malignant. Serial hCG levels are monitored closely for 1 year, and the client is urged to avoid pregnancy for 1 year because it can interfere with the monitoring of hCG levels. Iron intake and blood pressure are not important aspects of follow up after evacuation of a hydatiform mole. Use of a reliable contraceptive is strongly recommended so that pregnancy is avoided. Reference: p. 667
A client with severe preeclampsia is receiving magnesium sulfate as part of the treatment plan. To ensure the client's safety, which compound would the nurse have readily available? A. calcium gluconate B. potassium chloride C. ferrous sulfate D. calcium carbonate
A. calcium gluconate Rationale: The woman is at risk for magnesium toxicity. The antidote for magnesium sulfate is calcium gluconate, and this should be readily available in case the woman has signs and symptoms of magnesium toxicity. Reference: p. 686
A nurse suspects that a pregnant client may be experiencing a placental abruption based on assessment of which finding? Select all that apply. A. dark red vaginal bleeding B. insidious onset C. absence of pain D. rigid uterus E. absent fetal heart tones
A. dark red vaginal bleeding D. rigid uterus E. absent fetal heart tones Rationale: Assessment findings associated with a placental abruption include a sudden onset with concealed or visible dark red bleeding, constant pain or uterine tenderness on palpation, firm to rigid uterine tone, and fetal distress or absent fetal heart tones. Reference: p. 677
A client is suspected of having a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Which assessment would the nurse identify as the priority? A. hemorrhage B. jaundice C. edema D. infection
A. hemorrhage Rationale: With a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, the woman is at high risk for hemorrhage. Jaundice, edema, and infection are not associated with a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Reference: p. 663
A client with preeclampsia is receiving magnesium sulfate to suppress or control seizures. Which nursing intervention should a nurse perform to determine the effectiveness of therapy?
Assess deep tendon reflexes.
A nurse in the maternity triage unit is caring for a client with a suspected ectopic pregnancy. Which nursing intervention should the nurse perform first?
Assess the client's vital signs
A patient in her third trimester comes in for a routine prenatal visit. The nurse places her in a comfortable position and attaches the tocodynamometer and ultrasound monitor to the patient's abdomen. What is the purpose of this test?
Assesses fetal well-being
A woman with placenta previa is being treated with expectant management. The woman and fetus are stable. The nurse is assessing the woman for possible discharge home. Which statement by the woman would suggest to the nurse that home care might be inappropriate? A. "My mother lives next door and can drive me here if necessary." B. "I have a toddler and preschooler at home who need my attention." C. "I know to call my health care provider right away if I start to bleed again." D. "I realize the importance of following the instructions for my care."
B. "I have a toddler and preschooler at home who need my attention." Rationale: Having a toddler and preschooler at home needing attention suggest that the woman would have difficulty maintaining bed rest at home. Therefore, expectant management at home may not be appropriate. Expectant management is appropriate if the mother and fetus are both stable, there is no active bleeding, the client has readily available access to reliable transportation, and can comprehend instructions. Reference: p. 672
A woman is receiving magnesium sulfate as part of her treatment for severe preeclampsia. The nurse is monitoring the woman's serum magnesium levels. The nurse determines that the drug is at a therapeutic level based on which result? A. 3.3 mEq/L B. 6.1 mEq/L C. 8.4 mEq/L D. 10.8 mEq/L
B. 6.1 mEq/L Rationale: Although exact levels may vary among agencies, serum magnesium levels ranging from 4 to 7 mEq/L are considered therapeutic, whereas levels more than 8 mEq/dL are generally considered toxic. Reference: p. 690
A client who has experienced an incomplete abortion is prescribed mifepristone to assist in removing the retained products of conception. Which medication would the nurse expect to administer if prescribed before administering mifepristone? A. Opioid analgesic for relief of cramping B. Antiemetic to minimize nausea C. Vitamin K to reduce bleeding D. Diuretic to promote fluid loss
B. Antiemetic to minimize nausea Rationale: For the client receiving mifepristone, the nurse would anticipate administering an antiemetic beforehand to reduce nausea and vomiting. Acetaminophen would be useful for pain relief, not an opioid. Vitamin K or a diuretic would not be appropriate when administering mifepristone. Vitamin K would be used to counteract bleeding such as that associated with heparin administration. A diuretic would be appropriate to promote fluid excretion with fluid overload. Reference: p. 664
A client comes to the emergency department with moderate vaginal bleeding. She says, "I have had to change my pad about every 2 hours and it looks like I may have passed some tissue and clots." The woman reports that she is 9 weeks' pregnant. Further assessment reveals the following: • Cervical dilation • Strong abdominal cramping • Low human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels • Ultrasound positive for products of conception The nurse suspects that the woman is experiencing which type of spontaneous abortion? A. Threatened B. Inevitable C. Incomplete D. Complete
B. Inevitable Rationale: Based on the assessment findings, the woman is likely experiencing an inevitable abortion characterized by vaginal bleeding, rupture of membranes, cervical dilation, strong abdominal cramping, possible passage of products of conception, and ultrasound and hCG levels indicating pregnancy loss. A threatened abortion is characterized by slight vaginal bleeding, no cervical dilation or change in cervical consistency, mild abdominal cramping, close cervical os, and no passage of fetal tissue. An incomplete abortion is characterized by intense abdominal cramping, heavy vaginal bleeding and cervical dilation with passage of some products of conception. A complete abortion is characterized by a history of vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain along with passage of tissue and subsequent decrease in pain and decrease in bleeding. Reference: p. 663
A client at 33 weeks' gestation comes to the emergency department with vaginal bleeding. Assessment reveals the following: • Onset of slight vaginal bleeding at 29 weeks with spontaneous cessation • Recent onset of bright red vaginal bleeding, more than with previous episode • No uterine contractions at present • Fetal heart rate within normal range • Uterus soft and nontender Based on the assessment findings, which condition would the nurse likely suspect? A. Placental abruption B. Placenta previa C. Ruptured ectopic pregnancy D. Polyhydramnios
B. Placenta previa Rationale: The assessment findings suggest placenta previa, a bleeding condition that occurs during the last two trimesters of pregnancy. It is characterized by slight bright red vaginal bleeding initially that stops spontaneously and then recurs later in amounts greater than the initial episode; absence of pain/contractions; soft, relaxed uterine tone; and a fetal heart rate within normal parameters. Placental abruption is characterized by a sudden onset with concealed or visible dark vaginal bleeding, uterine tenderness and pain, with a firm or rigid uterus and fetal distress. The hallmark of ectopic pregnancy is abdominal pain with spotting within 6 to 8 weeks after a missed menstrual period. If ectopic rupture or hemorrhage occurs before treatment begins, symptoms may worsen and include severe, sharp, and sudden pain in the lower abdomen as the tube tears open and the embryo is expelled into the pelvic cavity; feelings of faintness; referred pain to the shoulder area, indicating bleeding into the abdomen caused by phrenic nerve irritation; hypotension; marked abdominal tenderness with distention; and hypovolemic shock. Polyhydramnios is initially suspected when uterine enlargement, maternal abdominal girth, and fundal height are larger than expected for the fetus's gestational age. With polyhydramnios, there is a discrepancy between fundal height and gestational age, or a rapid growth of the uterus is noted. Shortness of breath and uterine contractions from overstretching may occur. Often the fetal parts and heart rate are difficult to obtain because of the excess fluid present. Reference: p. 677
A pregnant woman is admitted with premature rupture of the membranes. The nurse is assessing the woman closely for possible infection. Which findings would lead the nurse to suspect that the woman is developing an infection? Select all that apply. A. fetal bradycardia B. abdominal tenderness C. elevated maternal pulse rate D. decreased C-reactive protein levels E. cloudy malodorous fluid
B. abdominal tenderness C. elevated maternal pulse rate E. cloudy malodorous fluid Rationale: Possible signs of infection associated with premature rupture of membranes include elevation of maternal temperature and pulse rate, abdominal/uterine tenderness, fetal tachycardia over 160 bpm, elevated white blood cell count and C-reactive protein levels, and cloudy, foul smelling amniotic fluid. Reference: p. 698
A woman with gestational hypertension develops eclampsia and experiences a seizure. Which intervention would the nurse identify as the priority? A. fluid replacement B. oxygenation C. control of hypertension D. birth of the fetus
B. oxygenation Rationale: As with any seizure, the priority is to clear the airway and maintain adequate oxygenation both to the mother and the fetus. Fluids and control of hypertension are addressed once the airway and oxygenation are maintained. Delivery of fetus is determined once the seizures are controlled and the woman is stable. Reference: p. 686
A woman pregnant with twins comes to the clinic for an evaluation. While assessing the client, the nurse would be especially alert for signs and symptoms for which potential problem? A. oligohydramnios B. preeclampsia C. post-term labor D. chorioamnionitis
B. preeclampsia Rationale: Women with multiple gestations are at high risk for preeclampsia, preterm labor, polyhydramnios, hyperemesis gravidarum, anemia, and antepartal hemorrhage. There is no association between multiple gestations and the development of chorioamnionitis. Reference: p. 695
A nurse is reviewing an article about preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Which factors would the nurse expect to find placing a woman at high risk for this condition? Select all that apply. A. high body mass index B. urinary tract infection C. low socioeconomic status D. single gestations E. smoking
B. urinary tract infection C. low socioeconomic status E. smoking Rationale: High-risk factors associated with prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM) include low socioeconomic status, multiple gestation, low body mass index, tobacco use, preterm labor history, placenta previa, abruptio placenta, urinary tract infection, vaginal bleeding at any time in pregnancy, cerclage, and amniocentesis. Reference: p. 697
A nurse is preparing a nursing care plan for a client who is admitted at 22 weeks' gestation with advanced cervical dilation (dilatation) to 5 cm, cervical insufficiency, and a visible amniotic sac at the cervical opening. Which primary goal should the nurse prioritize at this point?
Bed rest to maintain pregnancy as long as possible
A woman with hyperemesis gravidarum asks the nurse about suggestions to minimize nausea and vomiting. Which suggestion would be most appropriate for the nurse to make? A. "Make sure that anything around your waist is quite snug." B. "Try to eat three large meals a day with less snacking." C. "Drink fluids in between meals rather than with meals." D. "Lie down for about an hour after you eat."
C. "Drink fluids in between meals rather than with meals." Rationale: Suggestions to minimize nausea and vomiting include avoiding tight waistbands to minimize pressure on the abdomen, eating small frequent meals throughout the day, separating fluids from solids by consuming fluids in between meals; and avoiding lying down or reclining for at least 2 hours after eating. Reference: p. 682
Upon entering the room of a client who has had a spontaneous abortion (miscarriage), the nurse observes the client cterm-52rying. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate? A. "Why are you crying?" B. "Will a pill help your pain?" C. "I'm sorry you lost your baby." D. "A baby still wasn't formed in your uterus."
C. "I'm sorry you lost your baby." Rationale: Telling the client that the nurse is sorry for the loss acknowledges the loss to the woman, validates her feelings, and brings the loss into reality. Asking why the client is crying is ineffective at this time. Offering a pill for the pain ignores the client's feelings. Telling the client that the baby was not formed is inappropriate and discounts any feelings or beliefs that the client has. Reference: p. 661
A nurse is teaching a pregnant woman with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes about caring for herself after she is discharged home (which is to occur later this day). Which statement by the woman indicates a need for additional teaching? A. "I need to keep a close eye on how active my baby is each day." B. "I need to call my doctor if my temperature increases." C. "It's okay for my husband and me to have sexual intercourse." D. "I can shower, but I shouldn't take a tub bath."
C. "It's okay for my husband and me to have sexual intercourse." Rationale: The woman with preterm prelabor rupture of membranes should monitor her baby's activity by performing fetal kick counts daily, check her temperature and report any increases to the health care provider, not insert anything into her vagina or vaginal area, such as tampons or vaginal intercourse, and avoid sitting in a tub bath. Reference: p. 697
The health care provider prescribes PGE2 for a woman to help evacuate the uterus following a spontaneous abortion. Which action would be most important for the nurse to do? A. Use clean technique to administer the drug. B. Keep the gel cool until ready to use. C. Maintain the client supine for 30 minutes after administration. D. Administer intramuscularly into the deltoid area.
C. Maintain the client supine for 30 minutes after administration. Rationale: When PGE2 is prescribed, the gel should come to room temperature before administering it. Sterile technique should be used, and the client should remain supine for 30 minutes after administration. Rho(D) immune globulin is administered intramuscularly into the deltoid area. Reference: p. 664
A client is diagnosed with gestational hypertension and is receiving magnesium sulfate. The nurse determines that the medication is at a therapeutic level based on which finding? A. urinary output of 20 mL per hour B. respiratory rate of 10 breaths/minute C. deep tendons reflexes 2+ D. difficulty in arousing
C. deep tendons reflexes 2+ Rationale: With magnesium sulfate, deep tendon reflexes of 2+ would be considered normal and therefore a therapeutic level of the drug. Urinary output of less than 30 mL, a respiratory rate of less than 12 breaths/minute, and a diminished level of consciousness would indicate magnesium toxicity. Reference: p. 689
A nurse is conducting an in-service program for a group of nurses working at the women's health facility about the causes of spontaneous abortion. The nurse determines that the teaching was successful when the group identifies which condition as the most common cause of first trimester abortions? A. maternal disease B. cervical insufficiency C. fetal genetic abnormalities D. uterine fibroids
C. fetal genetic abnormalities Rationale: The causes of spontaneous abortion are varied and often unknown. The most common cause for first-trimester abortions is fetal genetic abnormalities, usually unrelated to the mother. Chromosomal abnormalities are more likely causes in first trimester, and maternal disease is more likely in the second trimester. Those occurring during the second trimester are more likely related to maternal conditions, such as cervical insufficiency, congenital, or acquired anomaly of the uterine cavity (uterine septum or fibroids), hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus, chronic nephritis, use of crack cocaine, inherited and acquired thrombophilias, lupus, polycystic ovary syndrome, severe hypertension, and acute infection such as rubella virus, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, bacterial vaginosis, and toxoplasmosis. Reference: p. 662
A client with hyperemesis gravidarum is admitted to the facility after being cared for at home without success. What would the nurse expect to include in the client's plan of care? A. clear liquid diet B. total parenteral nutrition C. nothing by mouth D. administration of labetalol
C. nothing by mouth Rationale: Typically, on admission, the woman with hyperemesis has oral food and fluids withheld to rest the gut and receives parenteral fluids to rehydrate and reduce the symptoms. Once the condition stabilizes, oral intake is gradually increased. Total parenteral nutrition may be used if the client's condition does not improve with several days of bed rest, gut rest, IV fluids, and antiemetics. Labetalol is an antihypertensive agent that may be used to treat gestational hypertension, not hyperemesis. Reference: p. 680
A nurse is reviewing a client's history and physical examination findings. Which information would the nurse identify as contributing to the client's risk for an ectopic pregnancy? A. use of oral contraceptives for 5 years B. ovarian cyst 2 years ago C. recurrent pelvic infections D. heavy, irregular menses
C. recurrent pelvic infections Rationale: In the general population, most cases of ectopic pregnancy are the result of tubal scarring secondary to pelvic inflammatory disease. Oral contraceptives, ovarian cysts, and heavy, irregular menses are not considered risk factors for ectopic pregnancy. Reference: p. 663
A nurse suspects that a client is developing HELLP syndrome. The nurse notifies the health care provider based on which finding? A. hyperglycemia B. elevated platelet count C. disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) D. elevated liver enzymes
D. elevated liver enzymes Rationale: HELLP is an acronym for hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets. Hyperglycemia is not a part of this syndrome. HELLP may increase the woman's risk for DIC but it is not an assessment finding. Reference: p. 691
The nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of a pregnant client. Which finding would alert the nurse to the development of HELLP syndrome? A. hyperglycemia B. elevated platelet count C. leukocytosis D. elevated liver enzymes
D. elevated liver enzymes Rationale: HELLP is an acronym for hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets. Hyperglycemia or leukocytosis is not a part of this syndrome. Reference: p. 691
A nurse is conducting an assessment of a woman who has experienced PROM. Which amniotic fluid finding would lead the nurse to suspect infection as the cause of a client's PROM? A. yellow-green fluid B. blue color on Nitrazine testing C. ferning D. foul odor
D. foul odor Rationale: A foul odor of the amniotic fluid indicates infection. Yellow-green fluid would suggest meconium. A blue color on Nitrazine testing and ferning indicate the presence of amniotic fluid. Reference: p. 697
A nurse is assessing a pregnant woman with gestational hypertension. Which finding would lead the nurse to suspect that the client has developed severe preeclampsia? A. urine protein 300 mg/24 hours B. blood pressure 150/96 mm Hg C. mild facial edema D. hyperreflexia
D. hyperreflexia Rationale: Severe preeclampsia is characterized by blood pressure over 160/110 mm Hg, urine protein levels greater than 500 mg/24 hours, and hyperreflexia. Mild facial edema is associated with mild preeclampsia. Reference: p. 683
A 40-year-old female client with a chronic pelvic infection expresses her desire to conceive post-treatment. When discussing this with the client the nurse keeps in mind that the client is at increased risk for which of the following?
Ectopic pregnancy
A female patient is complaining of vaginal spotting and sharp colicky pain. She informs the nurse that her period is 2 weeks late. The patient should be investigated for which of the following?
Ectopic pregnancy
A pregnant woman has been admitted to the hospital due to preeclampsia with severe features. Which measure will be important for the nurse to include in the care plan?
Institute and maintain seizure precautions.
After delivery, a patient is diagnosed with postpartal gestational hypertension. What care will the nurse provide to this patient?Select all that apply. Maintain on bed rest. Instruct on the purpose of a fluid restriction Administer magnesium sulfate as prescribed. Monitor urine output. Administer antihypertensive medication as prescribed
Maintain on bed rest. Monitor urine output. Administer magnesium sulfate as prescribed. Administer antihypertensive medication as prescribed.
The nutritional needs of an adolescent pregnant patient are unique because
Owing to typical food choices, an adolescent is often lacking calcium, iron, and folic acid in the diet
The following hourly assessments are obtained by the nurse on a client with preeclampsia receiving magnesium sulfate: 97.3oF (36.2oC), HR 88, RR 12 breaths/min, BP 148/110 mm Hg. What other priority physical assessments by the nurse should be implemented to assess for potential toxicity?
Reflexes
A pregnant client arrives at the community clinic reporting fever blisters and cold sores on the lips, eyes, and face. The health care provider has diagnosed it as the primary episode of genital herpes simplex virus (HSV), for which antiviral therapy is recommended. Which information should the nurse offer the client when educating her about managing the infection?
Safety of antiviral therapy during pregnancy has not been established
The nurse is caring for a client who has a multifetal pregnancy. What topic should the nurse prioritize during health education?
Signs of preterm labor
The nurse is monitoring a pregnant patient who is receiving intravenous magnesium sulfate for eclampsia. During the last assessment, the nurse was unable to elicit a patellar reflex. What should the nurse do?
Stop the current infusion.
A pregnant patient with a history of premature cervical dilatation undergoes cervical cerclage. Which outcome indicates that this procedure has been successful?
The client delivers a full-term fetus at 39 weeks' gestation.
A client in her third trimester is scheduled for a nonstress test. What is the purpose of the nonstress test for the client?
To determine the well-being of the fetus
A nurse is interviewing a pregnant woman who has come to the clinic for her first prenatal visit. During the interview, the client tells the nurse that she works in a day care center with 2- and 3-year olds. Based on the client's history, the nurse would be alert for the development of which condition?
cytomegalovirus
A nurse is caring for a pregnant client whose fetus has been diagnosed with macrosomia. When reviewing the client's history, which information would the nurse expect to find?
gestational diabetes
A novice nurse asks to be assigned to the least complex antepartum client. Which condition would necessitate the least complex care requirements?
gestational hypertension
Which medication will the nurse anticipate the health care provider will prescribe as treatment for an unruptured ectopic pregnancy?
methotrexate
A 44-year-old client has lost several pregnancies over the last 10 years. For the past 3 months, she has had fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. She visits the clinic and takes a pregnancy test; the results are positive. Physical examination confirms a uterus enlarged to 13 weeks' gestation; fetal heart tones are heard. Ultrasound reveals that the client is experiencing some bleeding. Considering the client's prenatal history and age, what does the nurse recognize as the greatest risk for the client at this time?
spontaneous abortion (miscarriage)
A pregnant woman has arrived to the office reporting vaginal bleeding. Which finding during the assessment would lead the nurse to suspect an inevitable abortion?
strong abdominal cramping
A nurse is assessing the following antenatal clients. Which client is at highest risk for having a multiple gestation? the 41-year-old client who conceived by in vitro fertilization the 19-year-old client diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome the 38-year-old client whose spouse is a triplet the 27-year-old client who gave birth to twins two years ago
the 41-year-old client who conceived by in vitro fertilization
A nurse is performing an assessment on a new client. The woman estimates that she is approximately 16 weeks pregnant. While assessing her, the nurse asks her about apparent scratch marks on her hands, and she tells the nurse that she has three cats at home. What screening would be prescribed for this woman?
toxoplasmosis
