External Maternal Monitoring Related

Review External Maternal Monitoring related questions and content

The nurse is assessing a pregnant patient in the second trimester who is complaining of leg cramps. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate?

  • A. Encourage the patient to take a hot bath to relieve the cramps.
  • B. Instruct the patient to elevate her legs while resting.
  • C. Recommend regular stretching exercises to prevent cramps.
  • D. Suggest that the patient take calcium supplements to prevent cramps.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Elevating her legs while resting helps improve circulation and reduce the risk of leg cramps in pregnant patients. This position promotes blood flow and reduces the pressure on the blood vessels. Choices A and D do not directly address improving circulation or reducing pressure on blood vessels. Choice C, while beneficial in general, may not provide immediate relief for the current leg cramps. Therefore, elevating the legs while resting is the most appropriate intervention for the pregnant patient experiencing leg cramps in the second trimester.