A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who was admitted to the postpartum unit. The client is diaphoretic, skin is clammy, pulse is rapid and strong, respirations are shallow. The client reports headache, nausea, and feeling weak.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Administer oxygen.
Offer an ice pack.
Provide a warm blanket.
Elevate the client’s legs.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen may help with symptoms like headache and weakness, but it does not address the underlying issue of poor circulation and potential shock. Elevating the legs is more effective in improving blood flow to vital organs.
Choice B rationale
Offering an ice pack is not appropriate for the symptoms described. The client is showing signs of shock, and an ice pack would not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale
Providing a warm blanket may offer comfort, but it does not address the symptoms of shock. Elevating the legs is a more direct intervention to improve circulation and stabilize the client.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the client’s legs helps improve venous return to the heart, increasing cardiac output and stabilizing blood pressure. This is a critical intervention for a client showing signs of shock.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pain in the upper right abdomen is not a typical sign of preterm labor. Preterm labor symptoms include regular contractions, lower back pain, and pelvic pressure.
Choice B rationale
Contractions occurring more frequently than every 10 minutes can indicate preterm labor. Regular contractions are a key sign of preterm labor.
Choice C rationale
While iron supplements are important during pregnancy, they do not prevent preterm labor. Preterm labor is influenced by various factors, including infections and uterine abnormalities.
Choice D rationale
Walking typically does not stop contractions associated with preterm labor. In fact, activity can sometimes exacerbate contractions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A BP of 132/84 mm Hg is within the normal range for a pregnant woman and does not require immediate reporting.
Choice B rationale
A weight gain of 1 kg (2.2 lb) in one month is within the expected range for a pregnant woman at 26 weeks gestation.
Choice C rationale
Pedal edema is a common symptom in pregnancy and is usually not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Double vision is a concerning symptom that could indicate a serious condition such as preeclampsia. It should be reported to the provider immediately.