The nurse in a prenatal clinic is assessing a patient who is at 37 weeks' gestation for twins. The patient reports increased discomfort and increased lower pelvic pressure.
Which action does the nurse take with this patient?
Explains to the patient that increased discomfort is expected with twins.
Performs a digital cervical examination to determine if dilation is occurring.
Sends the patient to the hospital to be checked for possible signs of labor.
After examination, assures the patient of the absence of contractions.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While it’s true that increased discomfort is expected with twins due to additional physical strain and space constraints, this alone is not sufficient reassurance. It is vital to assess for
signs of preterm labor or other complications.
Choice B rationale
Performing a digital cervical examination is a valid approach to checking for dilation, but this action must be carefully considered based on other signs and symptoms presented by
the patient. The focus here is on ensuring the absence or presence of labor, which might require hospital assessment.
Choice C rationale
Sending the patient to the hospital to be checked for possible signs of labor ensures that professional monitoring and interventions can occur if labor is confirmed. This action
prioritizes safety, given the increased risk of complications with twin pregnancies and the advanced gestation of 37 weeks.
Choice D rationale
Assuring the patient of the absence of contractions after an examination might provide temporary relief, but it does not address the possibility of other signs of labor or complications
that may require more comprehensive hospital assessment.
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Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia, increase the risk of placental abruption. They can cause changes in the blood vessels of the placenta, reducing blood flow and increasing the likelihood of separation.
Choice B rationale
Uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the uterus, can interfere with the proper attachment of the placenta, raising the risk of placental abruption.
Choice C rationale
Cigarette smoking contributes to placental abruption by reducing oxygen supply to the placenta, causing placental insufficiency and increasing the risk of premature separation.
Choice D rationale
Abdominal trauma, such as from a fall or car accident, can cause mechanical disruption of the placenta, leading to abruption.
Choice E rationale
Methamphetamine use can cause vasoconstriction and hypertension, which compromise placental blood flow and increase the risk of abruption.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Labor dystocia involves prolonged labor. Her fast delivery history suggests the opposite, indicating rapid labor progress.
Choice B rationale
Rapid labor progression, frequent contractions, and previous short labors suggest she is at risk for precipitous labor, requiring immediate preparation for delivery.
Choice C rationale
Cephalopelvic disproportion indicates size mismatch between baby and pelvis, not rapid labor. Her history of quick deliveries does not align with this condition.
Choice D rationale
False labor typically involves irregular, less intense contractions. Her regular, intense contractions and labor history suggest active labor, not false labor.