NCLEX RN Nursing Exam Related

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The nurse instructs a pregnant client (G2P1) to rest in a side-lying position and avoid lying flat on her back. The nurse explains that this is to avoid 'vena caval syndrome,' a condition which:

  • A. Occurs when blood pressure increases sharply with changes in position
  • B. Results when blood flow from the extremities is blocked or slowed
  • C. Is seen mainly in first pregnancies
  • D. May require medication if positioning does not help
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Vena caval syndrome occurs when the gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava, slowing blood return from the extremities.