ATI RN
Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assessing a pregnant patient at 18 weeks gestation who complains of feeling lightheaded when standing. What should the nurse advise the patient to do?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because changing positions slowly helps prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can cause lightheadedness. Sitting down immediately if feeling faint promotes safety and prevents falls. Taking deep breaths and lying flat on the back (choice
A) can exacerbate lightheadedness by reducing blood flow to the brain. Increasing fluid intake and avoiding prolonged standing (choice
B) may help with other issues but may not directly address the lightheadedness. Taking frequent rests while sitting upright (choice
C) does not address the issue of changing positions slowly to prevent lightheadedness.
Question 2 of 5
What is the recommended frequency for assessing maternal vital signs during the first hour after delivery?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A (every 15 minutes) because immediate postpartum assessment is crucial for early detection of complications. Monitoring vital signs every 15 minutes allows for prompt identification of issues like hemorrhage or infection.
Choice B (every 30 minutes) may lead to a delayed response to critical changes.
Choice C (once, then hourly) may miss rapid changes in the first hour.
Choice D (once, then every 4 hours) is too infrequent for the critical postpartum period. Regular monitoring is essential for ensuring maternal safety.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient at 24 weeks gestation reports occasional dizziness and lightheadedness. What should the nurse assess first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The patient's blood pressure and hydration status should be assessed first because dizziness and lightheadedness can be indicative of hypotension or dehydration, common issues during pregnancy. Monitoring blood pressure will help determine if the symptoms are related to low blood pressure, and assessing hydration status can identify if the patient needs to increase fluid intake.
Summary of other choices:
B: Assessing fetal heart rate and activity is important but not the priority in this situation as the focus should be on the maternal health first.
C: Checking hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is important for detecting anemia, but it is not the initial assessment for dizziness and lightheadedness.
D: Monitoring weight gain and diet history are essential aspects of prenatal care but are not the immediate concerns when a pregnant patient is experiencing dizziness and lightheadedness.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is providing prenatal education to a patient who is 22 weeks gestation. Which of the following topics should be emphasized at this stage of pregnancy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Signs and symptoms of preterm labor. At 22 weeks gestation, it is crucial to educate the patient about potential signs of preterm labor to help prevent premature birth and ensure the well-being of the baby. Symptoms such as regular contractions, abdominal cramping, backache, and vaginal bleeding should be discussed. This topic is time-sensitive and requires immediate action if observed.
Summary of other choices:
B: Signs of gestational diabetes - While important, monitoring for gestational diabetes typically occurs later in pregnancy, usually around 24-28 weeks.
C: Breastfeeding education - Important, but not as time-sensitive as preterm labor education.
D: Postpartum care - Relevant but more appropriate for later stages of pregnancy or after birth, not specifically at 22 weeks gestation.
Question 5 of 5
What procedure might the nurse perform to determine the presentation of the fetus?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: ultrasound. Ultrasound is the most accurate and non-invasive method to determine the presentation of the fetus by visualizing the position of the baby in the womb. It allows the nurse to see if the fetus is in a cephalic (head-down) or breech (feet or buttocks down) position. This information is crucial for assessing the progress of labor and planning appropriate interventions.
A: Vaginal exam is not typically used to determine fetal presentation as it does not provide a clear view of the baby's position.
C: Palpation of contractions helps assess the strength and frequency of contractions but does not directly determine fetal presentation.
D: Laboring person interview may provide valuable information about symptoms and history but does not offer direct insight into fetal presentation.