A nurse is reviewing a laboratory report for a client who is at 33 weeks of gestation and has preeclampsia. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse expect?
- A. BUN level of 30 mg/dL (normal range: 10 to 20 mg/dL).
- B. Hemoglobin level of 9.9 g/dL (normal range: 11 to 16 g/dL).
- C. Serum uric acid level of 2.5 mg/dL (normal range: 2.7 to 7.3 mg/dL).
- D. Casual blood glucose level of 228 mg/dL (normal range: less than 200 mg/dL).
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A BUN level of 30 mg/dL is above the normal range of 10 to 20 mg/dL. Elevated BUN is consistent with renal involvement in preeclampsia, which is caused by vascular constriction and reduced renal perfusion.
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For each of the following potential antihypertensive medications, indicate whether it is recommended or not recommended for use in a pregnant client.
- A. Methyldopa.
- B. Lisinopril.
- C. Labetalol.
- D. Losartan.
- E. Hydralazine.
Correct Answer: A,C,E
Rationale: Methyldopa (A) is safe and effective for pregnancy-induced hypertension. Labetalol (C) is recommended for hypertensive crises with a favorable safety profile. Hydralazine (E) is safe for severe hypertensive emergencies. Lisinopril (B) and Losartan (D) are contraindicated due to teratogenic risks.
A nurse is assessing a newborn who was born vaginally with vacuum extractor assistance. The nurse notes swelling over the newborn's head that crosses the suture line. The nurse should identify the swelling as which of the following findings?
- A. Nevus flammeus.
- B. Caput succedaneum.
- C. Cephalohematoma.
- D. Erythema toxicum.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Caput succedaneum involves swelling of the scalp caused by pressure during delivery, often crossing suture lines due to subcutaneous fluid accumulation, a hallmark distinguishing it from other neonatal head conditions.
A nurse is assessing a newborn who is 48 hr old and is experiencing opioid withdrawals. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
- A. Hypotonicity.
- B. Moderate tremors of the extremities.
- C. Axillary temperature 36.1°C (96.9° F).
- D. Excessive sleeping.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Moderate tremors result from central nervous system irritability during withdrawal. Elevated norepinephrine levels lead to excessive stimulation, causing tremors and jitteriness.
A nurse is assessing a client who is at 31 weeks of gestation. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of a potential prenatal complication?
- A. Periodic tingling of fingers.
- B. Absence of clonus.
- C. Leg cramps.
- D. Blurred vision.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Blurred vision may result from severe preeclampsia or elevated blood pressure, signifying potential end-organ damage. It requires immediate medical evaluation to prevent progression to eclampsia.
A nurse is assessing a client who gave birth 12 hours ago and is experiencing excessive vaginal bleeding. Which of the following findings indicates the client is experiencing decreased cardiac output?
- A. Bradycardia.
- B. Flushed face.
- C. Hypotension.
- D. Polyuria.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Hypotension, defined as blood pressure below 90/60 mmHg, occurs due to reduced blood volume and cardiac output in excessive postpartum bleeding, impairing adequate perfusion to organs and tissues.