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 ["A","B","C","D","G"]
Explanation
Choice A: Respiratory assessment
The newborn is exhibiting signs of respiratory distress, such as mild grunting, nasal flaring, and intermittent retractions. These symptoms indicate potential respiratory issues that need immediate attention.
Choice B: Hemoglobin
The newborn's hemoglobin level is 9 g/dL, which is below the normal range of 14 to 24 g/dL2. This indicates anemia, which can affect the baby's oxygen-carrying capacity and overall health.
Choice C: Serum glucose
The newborn's serum glucose level is 38 mg/dL, which is below the normal range of 40 to 45 mg/dL2. Hypoglycemia in newborns can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.
Choice D: Heart rate
The newborn's heart rate is 180 beats per minute, which is above the normal range for a newborn (normal range: 120-160 beats per minute)2. This tachycardia could be a response to stress or an underlying condition that needs evaluation.
Choice G: Hematocrit
The newborn's hematocrit level is 35%, which is below the normal range of 44% to 64%2. This further supports the presence of anemia and the need for intervention2
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that accelerates fetal lung maturity by increasing the production of surfactant, which reduces respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.
Choice B rationale
While betamethasone can cause transient increases in fetal heart rate, its primary purpose is not to increase fetal heart rate. Its role is in enhancing lung maturity.
Choice C rationale
Betamethasone does not directly increase amniotic fluid levels. Its main function is in the maturation of fetal lungs.
Choice D rationale
Betamethasone is not used to stop preterm labor contractions. It is used to accelerate fetal lung development in preterm labor cases.