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A client in a prenatal clinic is pregnant and experiencing episodes of maternal hypotension. The client asks the nurse what causes these episodes. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
- A. This is due to an increase in blood volume.
- B. This is due to pressure from the uterus on the diaphragm.
- C. This is due to the weight of the uterus on the vena cava.
- D. This is due to increased cardiac output.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: This is due to the weight of the uterus on the vena cava. Maternal hypotension during pregnancy can occur when the growing uterus compresses the vena cava, reducing blood flow back to the heart and causing a drop in blood pressure. This compression can lead to decreased blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, resulting in symptoms of hypotension. The other choices are incorrect because:
A: An increase in blood volume during pregnancy typically leads to an increase in blood pressure, not hypotension.
B: Pressure from the uterus on the diaphragm may cause discomfort or shortness of breath but is not the primary cause of maternal hypotension.
D: Increased cardiac output is a normal adaptation in pregnancy to meet the demands of the growing fetus and placenta, but it does not directly cause maternal hypotension.
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A healthcare professional is assisting with the care of a client who is receiving IV magnesium sulfate. Which of the following medications should the healthcare professional anticipate administering if magnesium sulfate toxicity is suspected?
- A. Nifedipine
- B. Pyridoxine
- C. Ferrous sulfate
- D. Calcium gluconate
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Calcium gluconate. When magnesium sulfate toxicity is suspected, calcium gluconate is administered because it antagonizes the effects of magnesium on the heart and central nervous system. This helps to counteract the muscle weakness, respiratory depression, and cardiac arrhythmias associated with magnesium toxicity. Nifedipine (A) is a calcium channel blocker and is not indicated for magnesium toxicity. Pyridoxine (B) is a form of vitamin B6 and is not used to treat magnesium toxicity. Ferrous sulfate (C) is an iron supplement and is not relevant in the management of magnesium toxicity.
A client who is 3 days postpartum is receiving education on effective breastfeeding. Which of the following information should the nurse include?
- A. Your milk will replace colostrum in about 10 days.
- B. Your breasts should feel firm after breastfeeding.
- C. Your newborn should urinate at least 10 times per day.
- D. Your newborn should appear content after each feeding.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Your newborn should appear content after each feeding. This is important as it indicates the baby is getting enough milk and is satisfied. If the baby appears content, it suggests effective breastfeeding. Choice A is incorrect as milk transition typically occurs within a few days, not 10. Choice B is incorrect as breasts feeling firm is not a reliable indicator of successful breastfeeding. Choice C is incorrect as the number of wet diapers is a better indicator of proper hydration, not just urination frequency.
When educating a pregnant client about potential complications, which manifestation should the nurse emphasize reporting to the provider promptly?
- A. Vaginal bleeding
- B. Swelling of the ankles
- C. Heartburn after eating
- D. Lightheadedness when lying on back
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Vaginal bleeding. This is crucial to report promptly as it could indicate serious issues like placental abruption or miscarriage. Swelling of the ankles (B) is common in pregnancy but not typically an urgent concern. Heartburn (C) is common and can be managed with lifestyle changes. Lightheadedness when lying on the back (D) is likely due to inferior vena cava compression and can be relieved by changing position. Reporting vaginal bleeding is vital for timely intervention in pregnancy complications.
When teaching a new mother how to use a bulb syringe to suction her newborn's secretions, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
- A. Insert the syringe tip after compressing the bulb.
- B. Suction each nare before suctioning the mouth.
- C. Insert the tip of the syringe at the center of the newborn's mouth.
- D. Stop suctioning when the newborn's cry sounds clear.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it is important to stop suctioning when the newborn's cry sounds clear to avoid causing unnecessary discomfort or injury. Step 1: Gently compress the bulb syringe. Step 2: Insert the tip into the nostril, not the mouth. Step 3: Release the bulb to suction out the secretions. Step 4: Repeat in the other nostril. Incorrect choices: A is incorrect because you should insert the syringe tip before compressing the bulb. B is incorrect as you should suction the mouth before the nose. C is incorrect as you should not insert the syringe tip in the center of the mouth.
A nurse in the emergency department is caring for a client who reports abrupt, sharp, right-sided lower quadrant abdominal pain and bright red vaginal bleeding. The client states, 'I missed one menstrual cycle and cannot be pregnant because I have an intrauterine device.' The nurse should suspect which of the following?
- A. Missed abortion
- B. Ectopic pregnancy
- C. Severe preeclampsia
- D. Hydatidiform mole
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ectopic pregnancy. Given the client's symptoms of right-sided lower quadrant abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, missed menstrual cycle, and presence of an intrauterine device, these are classic signs of an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, commonly in the fallopian tube, leading to abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. The other choices are incorrect because:
A: Missed abortion would typically present with cramping, bleeding, and passage of tissue.
C: Severe preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria, not the symptoms described.
D: Hydatidiform mole would typically present with vaginal bleeding and uterine enlargement, but not the sharp abdominal pain described.