ATI RN
Current Issues in Maternal-Newborn Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 48-year-old female patient presents to the OB/GYN clinic for her annual examination. She states that she has had the following symptoms: mood swings, irregular menstrual cycles, forgetfulness, food cravings, and a decrease in libido. Which of the following does the nurse suspect the patient is experiencing?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Perimenopause is the transitional period leading to menopause that usually begins in a woman's 40s but can start earlier. During this phase, women may experience symptoms such as mood swings, irregular menstrual cycles, forgetfulness, food cravings, and a decrease in libido, as described by the patient in this case. These symptoms are caused by hormonal fluctuations as the ovaries start to produce less estrogen in preparation for menopause. Menopause occurs when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Postmenopause, on the other hand, refers to the stage after menopause, where menopausal symptoms have generally subsided. The symptoms described by the patient are more indicative of the perimenopausal stage rather than pregnancy, as they are typical signs of hormonal changes associated with the menopausal transition.
Question 2 of 5
A college-aged female patient states that she understands the risk of sexual assault with overdrinking. She asks the nurse what health risks are associated with excessive alcohol intake for her age. What diseases or conditions should the nurse include in her response? Select all that apply
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) Infertility. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to disruptions in the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and hormonal balance in women, which can result in infertility. This is particularly important for the college-aged female patient to be aware of, as it can impact her future reproductive health. Option B) Cancer of mouth is incorrect because while excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for oral cancers, it is not specifically associated with the age group of college-aged females in the question. Option C) Hypertension is incorrect because although chronic alcohol abuse can lead to hypertension, it is not a common health risk specifically associated with college-aged females and excessive alcohol intake. Option D) Brain shrinkage is incorrect because while chronic alcohol abuse can lead to neurological damage, including brain shrinkage, it is not a commonly discussed health risk in the context of college-aged females and their understanding of the risks of overdrinking. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to provide accurate and relevant information to patients about the health risks associated with excessive alcohol intake. Understanding these risks can help individuals make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption and overall health. By addressing specific concerns related to their age group, nurses can effectively educate patients on how alcohol can impact their health and well-being.
Question 3 of 5
The telephone triage nurse receives a call from a patient who is 5 days postoperative total abdominal hysterectomy. The patient states that her pain is not relieved with the medications and that she has noticed blood in her urine. The nurse instructs the patient to report immediately to the emergency department. What does the nurse suspect as the surgical complication?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this situation where the patient is 5 days postoperative total abdominal hysterectomy and experiencing pain that is not relieved with medications, the nurse should suspect a possible hemorrhage from the internal incision. Although some pain is expected postoperatively, severe or worsening pain that is not relieved with medications can indicate a complication such as internal bleeding. Immediate medical attention is needed to assess and manage any potential hemorrhage to prevent further complications or adverse outcomes. Other signs of internal bleeding may include symptoms such as increasing abdominal distention, tachycardia, hypotension, and signs of shock.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is providing care to a 35-year-old female patient who complains of low back pain, pain with defecation, pelvic pressure, and premenstrual spotting. The health care provider has prescribed the hormonal therapy Lupron for this condition. What is the goal of this prescription?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The goal of prescribing Lupron for this patient is to suppress menstruation and further growth of the tissue. Lupron is a hormonal therapy that works by suppressing the production of certain hormones that stimulate the growth of endometrial tissue. In conditions like endometriosis, where the endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, suppressing menstruation can help alleviate symptoms such as pelvic pain, back pain, and pelvic pressure. By halting the growth of the tissue, Lupron can help manage the symptoms associated with endometriosis and improve the patient's quality of life.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is providing postoperative care to a patient who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy 12 hours ago. Which of the following are appropriate nursing interventions? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of postoperative care for a patient who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy, assisting the patient with ambulation is an appropriate nursing intervention. This action helps prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis, promotes circulation, aids in bowel motility, and supports overall recovery. Maintaining the Foley catheter for 48 to 72 hours postoperatively (Option B) is not typically recommended due to the increased risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections and other complications. Early removal of the catheter encourages early mobilization and reduces the risk of infection. Monitoring intake and output as well as characteristics of urine (Option C) is a crucial aspect of postoperative care, but the specific mention of urinary tract infection (Option D) does not directly relate to the immediate postoperative period following a hysterectomy. However, monitoring for signs of infection is important in overall nursing care. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind each nursing intervention is crucial for providing safe and effective care to postoperative patients. It is essential for nurses to critically think about the appropriateness of interventions based on evidence-based practice guidelines to optimize patient outcomes and promote recovery.