A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted in preterm labor at 33 weeks gestation.
The provider has ordered betamethasone 12 mg IM every 24 hours.
Before administering the medication, what should the nurse include in client teaching?
This medication is used to increase fetal surfactant production.
This medication increases the fetal heart rate.
This medication is used to increase amniotic fluid levels.
This medication is used to stop preterm labor contractions.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A newborn who is 26 hours post-delivery and has had no urine output needs immediate attention. Lack of urine output for over 24 hours may indicate dehydration or renal issues. Immediate medical evaluation is required to identify underlying conditions and prevent complications such as acute kidney injury or sepsis.
Choice B rationale
Acrocyanosis, characterized by blueish discoloration of the extremities, is common in newborns during the first 24-48 hours of life and usually resolves on its own. It occurs due to immature blood circulation and is generally not a cause for concern.
Choice C rationale
Failure to pass meconium within the first 24 hours can be a sign of conditions like Hirschsprung's disease or cystic fibrosis, but it is not as immediately concerning as anuria (no urine output). Monitoring and further evaluation are necessary, but it does not require urgent provider notification.
Choice D rationale
A blood glucose level of 50 mg/dL in a newborn is within the lower limit of normal. While it's important to monitor, it does not necessitate immediate provider notification unless it continues to drop or other symptoms arise.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assessing the client's blood pressure can help determine if there is a significant loss of blood and consequent hypotension. However, it is not the immediate first action to manage
heavy bleeding postpartum.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the bladder for distention is crucial as a full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction, potentially leading to increased bleeding. But, it isn't the first priority compared to
addressing the immediate bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Massaging the client's fundus is the priority action in this case. It helps to contract the uterus, thereby reducing bleeding. Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum
hemorrhage, and fundal massage is the first intervention to manage it.
Choice D rationale
Preparing to administer a prescription may be necessary, especially if uterotonics are required. However, this is a subsequent step after attempting to control the bleeding through
fundal massage.