Nokea
A client is scheduled for a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this test. What explanation should the nurse provide?
- A. This test screens for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities in the fetus.
- B. It assesses various markers of fetal well-being.
- C. This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus.
- D. It is a screening test for spinal defects in the fetus.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test is specifically used to screen for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities in the fetus. Alpha-fetoprotein levels in the mother's blood can indicate the presence of such abnormalities. This test is typically done around 15-20 weeks of gestation.
Choice B is incorrect because the maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test is not used to assess various markers of fetal well-being. Choice C is incorrect because it does not identify Rh incompatibility, which is typically detected through other tests. Choice D is incorrect because the test is not primarily for spinal defects, but rather for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities.
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While observing the electronic fetal heart rate monitor tracing for a client at 40 weeks of gestation in labor, a nurse should suspect a problem with the umbilical cord when she observes which of the following patterns?
- A. Early decelerations
- B. Accelerations
- C. Late decelerations
- D. Variable decelerations
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Variable decelerations. Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the fetal heart rate that coincide with contractions, indicating umbilical cord compression. This pattern can lead to fetal hypoxia and distress. Early decelerations (A) are gradual decreases in heart rate that mirror contractions and are considered benign. Accelerations (B) are increases in heart rate and are a reassuring sign of fetal well-being. Late decelerations (C) are gradual decreases in heart rate that occur after the peak of a contraction, indicating uteroplacental insufficiency.
During an assessment of a newborn following a vacuum-assisted delivery, which of the following findings should the healthcare provider be informed about?
- A. Poor sucking
- B. Blue discoloration of the hands and feet
- C. Soft, edematous area on the scalp
- D. Facial edema
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Poor sucking. This finding is concerning as it may indicate potential issues with feeding and nutrition in the newborn, which can lead to complications. Poor sucking can be a sign of various underlying problems that require prompt intervention. Blue discoloration of the hands and feet (choice B) is likely due to peripheral cyanosis, which is common in newborns and often resolves on its own. Soft, edematous area on the scalp (choice C) is a common finding in newborns after vacuum-assisted delivery and typically resolves without intervention. Facial edema (choice D) is also a common finding in newborns after delivery and typically resolves on its own.
While caring for a newborn, a nurse auscultates an apical heart rate of 130/min. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Ask another nurse to verify the heart rate.
- B. Document this as an expected finding.
- C. Call the provider to further assess the newborn.
- D. Prepare the newborn for transport to the NICU.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Document this as an expected finding. A heart rate of 130/min in a newborn is within the normal range (120-160/min). The nurse should document this as an expected finding because it indicates a healthy heart rate for a newborn. There is no immediate need for intervention or further assessment as the heart rate falls within the normal range for a newborn. Asking another nurse to verify the heart rate (choice A) is unnecessary as it is within the normal range. Calling the provider to further assess the newborn (choice C) is not needed since the heart rate is normal. Preparing the newborn for transport to the NICU (choice D) is not indicated as the heart rate is within the normal range.
A client reports unrelieved episiotomy pain 8 hours following a vaginal birth. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
- A. Apply an ice pack to the affected area.
- B. Offer a warm sitz bath.
- C. Provide a squeeze bottle of antiseptic solution.
- D. Place a hot pack on the perineum.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Apply an ice pack to the affected area. Ice helps reduce inflammation and numb the pain, providing relief for the client. Step 1: Ice constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and pain. Step 2: Ice numbs the area, providing immediate relief. Step 3: Ice is recommended for acute pain management. Summary: B (warm sitz bath) may increase blood flow and exacerbate swelling. C (antiseptic solution) is not indicated for pain relief. D (hot pack) may worsen inflammation and pain.
A parent of a newborn is being taught about crib safety. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?
- A. I will place my baby on his stomach when he is sleeping.
- B. I should remove extra blankets from my baby's crib.
- C. I should pad the mattress in my baby's crib so that he will be more comfortable when he sleeps.
- D. I should place my baby's crib next to the heater to keep him warm during the winter.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because removing extra blankets from the baby's crib reduces the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Placing the baby on the stomach (Option A) increases the risk of SIDS. Padding the mattress (Option C) can also increase the risk of suffocation. Placing the crib next to a heater (Option D) can lead to overheating and poses a fire hazard. Removing extra blankets ensures a safe sleep environment for the baby.