External Maternal Monitoring Related

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A pregnant patient is at 34 weeks gestation and reports persistent lower back pain and difficulty sleeping. What is the nurse's best recommendation for this patient?

  • A. Rest in bed and avoid any physical activity.
  • B. Use a firm mattress and avoid sleeping on the back.
  • C. Take over-the-counter pain medications to alleviate symptoms.
  • D. Apply heat to the back and practice good posture while sitting.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use a firm mattress and avoid sleeping on the back. This recommendation is appropriate because during pregnancy, the weight of the uterus can compress blood vessels when lying on the back, causing back pain and affecting circulation. Using a firm mattress can provide better support for the back, relieving discomfort. Avoiding sleeping on the back reduces the risk of decreased blood flow to the fetus.

A: Rest in bed and avoid any physical activity is incorrect because it can lead to muscle stiffness and worsen back pain.
C: Taking over-the-counter pain medications may provide temporary relief but does not address the root cause of the discomfort.
D: Applying heat to the back and practicing good posture are helpful strategies, but avoiding sleeping on the back is more crucial to alleviate the symptoms in this case.