A client at 28 weeks gestation calls the antepartum clinic and reports experiencing a small amount of bright red vaginal bleeding without uterine contractions or abdominal pain. What instruction should the LPN/LVN provide?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Bright red vaginal bleeding without pain could indicate placental issues such as previa. An ultrasound is necessary to evaluate the cause. It is important to rule out potential serious conditions like placental previa, which can lead to further complications for both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, prompt evaluation through an ultrasound at the clinic is essential for appropriate management and ensuring the well-being of the client and her baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the scenario presented, the correct intervention for the 28-year-old client experiencing leg cramps during labor is Option B: Extend the leg and dorsiflex the foot. This intervention is appropriate because it helps to alleviate muscle cramps by stretching the affected muscle and improving circulation. Dorsiflexion of the foot helps to relieve tension in the calf muscle, reducing the cramping sensation. Option A, massaging the calf and foot, may not be advisable in this case as it can potentially dislodge a blood clot if the cramp is due to deep vein thrombosis. Option C, lowering the leg off the side of the bed, can worsen the cramp by increasing muscle tension. Option D, elevating the leg above the heart, is not typically indicated for leg cramps and may not address the underlying cause effectively. From an educational standpoint, understanding the rationale behind interventions for common discomforts during labor is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers working in maternity care. It is essential to know the appropriate measures to address issues like leg cramps to ensure the well-being and comfort of laboring individuals. By mastering these interventions, healthcare professionals can provide effective and evidence-based care during the labor and delivery process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period. This timing allows for the released egg to travel down the fallopian tube where it may be fertilized by sperm, leading to conception. Understanding the timing of ovulation is crucial for couples trying to conceive to increase their chances of success.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) A sterile glove. The rationale behind this choice is that during an amniotomy, which is the artificial rupture of membranes to induce or augment labor, the nurse performing the procedure must maintain a sterile field to prevent infection and ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Therefore, having a sterile glove available at the client's bedside is crucial to adhere to aseptic technique. Option A) Litmus paper is incorrect because it is used to test the pH of fluids, not necessary for an amniotomy procedure. Option B) Fetal scalp electrode is used for fetal monitoring during labor, not for an amniotomy. Option D) Needle and thread are not relevant to this procedure and could potentially cause harm if used inappropriately. Educationally, it is essential for nurses to understand the rationale behind the equipment required for specific procedures to provide safe and effective care to their patients. By knowing the correct equipment and its purpose, nurses can ensure proper execution of procedures, minimize complications, and promote positive outcomes for both the mother and the baby during childbirth.