Current Issues in Maternal-Newborn Nursing Related

Review Current Issues in Maternal-Newborn Nursing related questions and content

A patient arrives to the clinic 2 hours late for her prenatal appointment. This is the third time she has been late. What is the nurse’s best action in response to this patient’s tardiness?

  • A. Ask the patient if she has a way to tell the time.
  • B. Ask the patient if she is deliberately being late for her appointments.
  • C. Determine if the patient wants this baby and if this is her way of acting out.
  • D. Determine if the patient arrives after the start time for other types of appointments.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The nurse's best action in response to the patient's tardiness is to determine if the patient wants this baby and if this is her way of acting out. Tardiness to prenatal appointments can sometimes indicate underlying issues such as ambivalence towards the pregnancy or emotional distress. By addressing the patient's motivation for being consistently late, the nurse can better understand and support her needs. This approach allows for a more patient-centered and compassionate response, aiming to address any possible concerns or challenges the patient may be facing.