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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
History of preterm birth is the principal risk factor for predicting preterm birth. Previous preterm births significantly increase the likelihood of subsequent preterm deliveries due to
underlying etiological factors.
Choice B rationale
Low prepregnancy weight is a risk factor but not as significant as a history of preterm birth. It can contribute to complications in pregnancy but does not have the same predictive value.
Choice C rationale
Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth but is not the principal risk factor. It is a modifiable behavior that contributes to poor pregnancy outcomes.
Choice D rationale
Obesity can impact pregnancy outcomes but is not the principal risk factor for preterm birth. It is associated with other complications rather than directly predicting preterm delivery.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While massaging the fundus and ensuring IV access are correct initial actions, methylergonovine (Methergine) is typically used for patients without hypertensive history due to its
potential to raise blood pressure.
Choice B rationale
This option correctly identifies initial steps and appropriate medication. Carboprost-tromethamine (Hemabate) is effective in controlling postpartum hemorrhage and can be safely
used in patients with hypertension when oxytocin is insufficient.
Choice C rationale
Quantifying blood loss is essential but it is not an immediate priority when the patient is showing signs of significant bleeding and instability. Immediate intervention to control bleeding
takes precedence.
Choice D rationale
Assisting the patient to the restroom and then massaging the fundus overlooks the immediate need to control bleeding. This approach may delay necessary treatment and increase
the risk of further hemorrhage.
Choice E rationale
Straight catheterization and oxytocin maintenance are part of the management of postpartum hemorrhage but do not address the immediate need to ensure uterine contraction and
control active bleeding as effectively as the initial steps outlined in Choice B. .