A preterm labor client at 30 weeks' gestation reported rupture of membranes 4 hours ago. This was confirmed on examination. The nurse prepares to administer IM dexamethasone. When the client asks why she is receiving the drug, the nurse replies:
To help stop your labor contractions.
To prevent an infection in your uterus.
To help mature your baby's lungs.
To decrease the pain from the contractions.
To decrease the pain from the contractions.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Dexamethasone does not directly stop labor contractions; instead, it is used to enhance fetal lung maturity.
Choice B rationale
Dexamethasone is not for infection prevention; antibiotics are used for that purpose in cases of premature rupture of membranes.
Choice C rationale
Dexamethasone is administered to enhance fetal lung maturity, reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome in preterm infants.
Choice D rationale
Dexamethasone is not used for pain relief in preterm labor; other medications are prescribed for pain management.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Reflexes of 3+ indicate hyperreflexia, common in pre-eclampsia, but not necessarily critical. Monitoring is essential but not an emergency.
Choice B rationale
Urinary output of 30 mL/hr is within the acceptable range but requires monitoring for any changes. It's not a critical alert.
Choice C rationale
A respiratory rate of 16 rpm is normal and does not indicate immediate risk requiring physician notification.
Choice D rationale
Serum magnesium level of 10 mg/dL is significantly high, indicating potential toxicity. Immediate physician notification is critical to adjust magnesium sulfate administration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While maternal lacerations are a risk during childbirth, they are not the greatest risk in cases of fetal dystocia. The focus is primarily on fetal wellbeing.
Choice B rationale
Fetal injury such as bruising can occur with dystocia, but the primary concern is the potential for severe, life-threatening complications.
Choice C rationale
Neonatal asphyxia related to prolonged labor is the greatest risk with fetal dystocia. Prolonged labor can lead to decreased oxygen supply to the fetus, causing asphyxia and
potential brain injury.
Choice D rationale
Increased consideration for a cesarean delivery is a possible outcome of fetal dystocia, but it is a management decision rather than a direct risk to the baby’s immediate health.