A nurse on an antepartum unit is caring for a 28-year-old gravida 1 para 0 female client at 32 weeks of gestation.
Exhibit 1: History and Physical The client is 32 weeks pregnant and has been experiencing cramping and low back pain for the past 3 hours. She rates her pain as 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. She describes the pain as stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions and mentions having a little urinary leakage earlier in the day. She denies vaginal bleeding. The client decided to come in for evaluation at her doctor's advice.
Exhibit 2: Nurse's Notes 0900: The client reports cramping and low back pain started 3 hours ago. She rates the pain as 2 on a scale of 0 to 10. She feels the contractions are stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions. She mentions urinary leakage earlier today but denies any vaginal bleeding. The external fetal monitor shows contractions occurring every 5 minutes, lasting 30 seconds, and of moderate intensity. Fetal heart rate is 140/min. A vaginal exam reveals the cervix is closed and 80% effaced. No bleeding is noted, but there is clear mucus discharge on the exam glove.
Exhibit 3:
Vital Signs Heart rate: 80/min
Blood pressure: 120/80 mmHg
Respiratory rate: 18/min
Temperature: 36.8°C (98.2°F)
Oxygen saturation: 98%Exhibit 4:
Physical Examination Results
The client's abdomen is soft, non-tender, and the fundal height corresponds to the gestational age. No signs of vaginal bleeding are observed. Clear mucus discharge is noted on the exam glove. The cervix is closed and 80% effaced. The fetal heart rate is regular at 140/min. The client appears anxious but is in no acute distress. The fetal movements are felt and reported to be normal.
Complete the following sentence by using the list of options. The nurse should identify that _______ are findings that require follow-up.
Contractions every 5 minutes
Fetal heart rate of 140/min
Clear mucus discharge
Closed cervix
The Correct Answer is A
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Preterm Labor Risk: At 32 weeks of gestation, regular contractions every 5 minutes could indicate the onset of preterm labor. This is concerning because preterm labor can lead to preterm birth, which poses significant risks to the baby's health and development.
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Frequency and Intensity: These contractions are occurring frequently (every 5 minutes) and are described as stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions. This frequency and the strength of the contractions are unusual for Braxton Hicks, which are typically irregular and less intense.
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Effacement and Cervical Changes: Although the cervix is closed, it is 80% effaced. Effacement means the cervix is thinning, which, in combination with regular contractions, may indicate that the body is preparing for labor.
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Urinary Leakage: The client also reported urinary leakage earlier in the day, which could be a sign of ruptured membranes (water breaking). This, combined with regular contractions, increases the need for careful monitoring.
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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.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Taking iron supplements with milk is not advised because calcium in milk can interfere with the absorption of iron, reducing its effectiveness.
Choice B rationale
Doubling the dose of iron supplements if a dose is missed is not recommended because it can cause gastrointestinal issues and toxicity. It's better to just continue with the regular
dosing schedule.
Choice C rationale
Consuming 29 grams of fiber daily is a good practice for overall health, but it does not directly aid in iron absorption. Fiber can actually bind to iron and decrease its absorption in the
intestines.
Choice D rationale
Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron (found in supplements) by converting it into a more absorbable form. Taking vitamin C with iron supplements increases their
effectiveness, making this statement correct.