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
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Blood pressure of 160/110 indicates severe preeclampsia and warrants immediate intervention to prevent complications. Stopping oxytocin is part of the management of severe
preeclampsia to avoid exacerbating the condition.
Choice B rationale
Frequency of contractions every 3 minutes is within the normal range during labor induction and does not warrant stopping the infusion unless there are other concerns.
Choice C rationale
A fetal heart rate of 155 bpm with early decelerations may require close monitoring but does not necessarily warrant stopping the oxytocin infusion. Early decelerations are typically a
normal physiological response.
Choice D rationale
Frequency of contractions every 3 minutes is expected during active labor and is generally not a cause to stop the oxytocin infusion. The nurse should continue to monitor the labor
progression closely.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Oxytocin is used to induce or augment labor, not typically used before an external version, which is a procedure to turn a breech baby to a head-down position.
Choice B rationale
Methylergonovine is used to prevent or control postpartum hemorrhage by inducing strong uterine contractions, not indicated before an external version.
Choice C rationale
Betamethasone is a corticosteroid used to accelerate fetal lung maturity in preterm labor, not required for an external version.
Choice D rationale
Terbutaline is a tocolytic agent used to relax the uterus, making it easier to manipulate the fetus during the external version procedure.