Adult Health 1 Exam 1 Related

Review Adult Health 1 Exam 1 related questions and content

After placing a client at 26-weeks gestation in the lithotomy position, the client complains of dizziness and becomes pale and diaphoretic. What action should the nurse implement?

  • A. Instruct the client to take deep breaths.
  • B. Place a wedge under the client's hip.
  • C. Place the client in the Trendelenburg position.
  • D. Remove the client's legs from the stirrups.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Placing a wedge under the client's hip is the correct action in this scenario. This helps relieve the pressure on the vena cava, which can become compressed in the lithotomy position during pregnancy, improving circulation and reducing symptoms like dizziness and pallor. Instructing the client to take deep breaths (Choice A) may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Placing the client in the Trendelenburg position (Choice C) would worsen the situation by further compressing the vena cava. Removing the client's legs from the stirrups (Choice D) may provide temporary relief but does not address the root cause of the issue.