A nurse is caring for a client in labor at 39 weeks of gestation.
Which of the following assessment findings requires follow-up?
Maternal blood pressure of 128/88.
Fetal heart rate baseline of 115 bpm.
Maternal heart rate of 128 bpm.
Maternal respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A maternal blood pressure of 128/88 mm Hg is within normal limits for a pregnant woman. Regular monitoring is necessary, but no immediate follow-up is required unless symptoms
of preeclampsia appear.
Choice B rationale
A fetal heart rate baseline of 115 bpm is within the normal range (110-160 bpm). This does not require immediate follow-up and is a reassuring sign of fetal well-being.
Choice C rationale
A maternal heart rate of 128 bpm is elevated (tachycardia) and may indicate distress, infection, dehydration, or other underlying conditions. This requires immediate follow-up to identify and address the cause.
Choice D rationale
A maternal respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute is within the normal range (12-20 breaths per minute) and does not require immediate follow-up.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A 10% to 15% increase in blood volume during pregnancy is too low compared to the average physiological changes that occur.
Choice B rationale
A 20% to 30% increase in blood volume is also below the expected range of increase during pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
Blood volume typically increases by 40% to 50% during pregnancy. This significant increase supports the demands of the growing fetus and placenta and prepares the mother's body for the blood loss that occurs during delivery.
Choice D rationale
A 65% to 75% increase is an overestimate. Such an extensive increase would be abnormal and is not typical in healthy pregnancies.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A boggy and displaced fundus typically indicates bladder distention. Assisting the client to void can help relieve bladder distention, allowing the uterus to contract properly and
reducing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
Asking the client to rate her pain is important, but it does not address the immediate issue of a boggy, displaced fundus, which suggests bladder distention.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the client to move to the left lateral position might help with blood flow and comfort but does not resolve the issue of a boggy fundus due to bladder distention.
Choice D rationale
Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic floor muscles but do not address the immediate concern of a boggy, displaced fundus caused by bladder distention.