A nurse is providing teaching about nifedipine for a client who is at 34 weeks of gestation and has gestational hypertension.
For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse instruct the client to notify the provider?
Irregular heartbeat.
Hair loss.
Increased salivation.
Pause.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Irregular heartbeat (palpitations or arrhythmias) can indicate a serious cardiovascular side effect of nifedipine. It requires immediate medical attention as it could compromise
maternal and fetal circulation.
Choice B rationale
Hair loss is not a known adverse effect of nifedipine and generally does not pose a significant health risk. It is more commonly associated with hormonal changes rather than
medication side effects.
Choice C rationale
Increased salivation is not a common side effect of nifedipine. Nifedipine primarily affects the cardiovascular system rather than salivary glands.
Choice D rationale
Pause is not a recognized adverse effect related to nifedipine usage. The term itself is ambiguous and not typically associated with the pharmacological profile of nifedipine.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Uterine contractions occur more frequently than every 15 minutes during the active phase of labor, typically every 2-3 minutes.
Choice B rationale
A fetal heart rate baseline of 166/min is considered tachycardia and may not be normal during labor.
Choice C rationale
Late decelerations are concerning and not expected as they may indicate fetal distress.
Choice D rationale
Contractions lasting about 75 seconds are expected during the active phase of labor.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Leukorrhea is a common and normal occurrence in pregnancy due to increased estrogen production and greater blood flow to the vaginal area. It is usually a thin, white discharge and not a cause for concern unless accompanied by itching, burning, or an unusual odor.
Choice B rationale
Excessive salivation, also known as ptyalism, can occur during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. It is linked to hormonal changes and is not typically harmful, though it may be uncomfortable for the patient.
Choice C rationale
Darkening of the skin on the face, known as melasma or chloasma, is common during pregnancy and is due to increased pigmentation from hormonal changes. It typically resolves postpartum and is not harmful.
Choice D rationale
Epigastric pain in a pregnant client at 33 weeks gestation can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organs. It requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications for both the mother and baby.