A client at 32 weeks' gestation is diagnosed with oligohydramnios. What complication is associated with this condition?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option C: Pulmonary hypoplasia. Oligohydramnios, which is a condition characterized by a decreased amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus, can lead to various complications. Pulmonary hypoplasia is a significant concern in cases of oligohydramnios because amniotic fluid plays a crucial role in fetal lung development. Adequate levels of amniotic fluid are necessary for the normal growth and expansion of the fetal lungs. When oligohydramnios is present, there is a risk of underdeveloped or hypoplastic lungs, which can result in respiratory distress for the newborn after birth. Now, let's discuss why the other options are incorrect: A) Fetal macrosomia: This condition refers to a large baby at birth, which is not directly associated with oligohydramnios. Fetal macrosomia is more commonly linked to maternal conditions like gestational diabetes. B) Cord prolapse: Cord prolapse occurs when the umbilical cord slips through the cervix ahead of the baby. While oligohydramnios can increase the risk of cord compression, it is not directly associated with cord prolapse. D) Placenta previa: Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, which can lead to bleeding during pregnancy. Oligohydramnios is not a typical complication of placenta previa. In an educational context, understanding the implications of oligohydramnios on fetal development is crucial for healthcare providers caring for pregnant women. This knowledge helps in identifying potential complications, providing appropriate interventions, and ensuring the best possible outcomes for both the mother and the baby. It underscores the importance of prenatal monitoring and timely interventions to address conditions that can impact fetal well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a client with gestational diabetes during labor, the nurse should monitor for the complication of macrosomia, which is the correct answer (B). Macrosomia refers to a condition where the baby is significantly larger than average, often due to excessive glucose crossing the placenta. This poses risks during labor, such as shoulder dystocia and birth injuries. Placental abruption (A) is a separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery, which is not directly linked to gestational diabetes. Preterm labor (C) is premature contractions leading to early delivery, not specifically associated with gestational diabetes. Postpartum hemorrhage (D) is excessive bleeding after childbirth and can occur in any laboring woman, not solely those with gestational diabetes. Educationally, understanding the implications of gestational diabetes on labor and delivery outcomes is crucial for nurses caring for these clients. Monitoring for complications like macrosomia allows for timely interventions to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Nurses need to be knowledgeable about the specific risks and complications associated with gestational diabetes to provide optimal care during labor and delivery.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of preparing a client for cesarean delivery, the priority nursing action is to verify signed informed consent (Option C). This is crucial because it ensures that the client has been informed about the procedure, its risks, benefits, and alternatives, and has given their voluntary consent. Without valid informed consent, proceeding with the surgery would be ethically and legally inappropriate. Obtaining baseline vital signs (Option A) is important but not the priority in this scenario where ensuring informed consent takes precedence. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter (Option B) is typically done after the client has been prepared for surgery and is in the operating room. Administering prophylactic antibiotics (Option D) is important in preventing infection but is not the immediate priority compared to ensuring informed consent. Educationally, this question highlights the significance of informed consent in healthcare decision-making. It underscores the nursing responsibility to advocate for patients' rights and autonomy, ensuring they are fully informed and actively participate in their care. Understanding the prioritization of actions in maternal newborn care, especially before surgical interventions, is vital for safe and ethical practice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Check the client's blood pressure. The priority nursing action in a pregnant client experiencing headaches and blurred vision in the third trimester is to assess their blood pressure to rule out preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage. Checking the client's blood pressure is crucial as preeclampsia can lead to severe complications for both the mother and baby if left untreated. Assessing the fetal heart rate (option B) is important but not the priority when the mother's health is at risk. Administering acetaminophen (option C) may provide symptomatic relief but does not address the underlying cause. Encouraging rest (option D) is beneficial, but not the priority when potentially dealing with a hypertensive emergency like preeclampsia. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing signs and symptoms of preeclampsia in pregnant clients and the critical role of the nurse in early detection and intervention to prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and fetus.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C) It reduces the risk of neural tube defects. Folic acid is crucial during pregnancy as it plays a vital role in the development of the baby's neural tube, which later becomes the brain and spinal cord. Adequate folic acid intake, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, significantly decreases the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Option A) It helps prevent gestational diabetes is incorrect because folic acid does not have a direct relationship with preventing gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is more influenced by factors like diet, exercise, and maternal health. Option B) It promotes fetal brain development is partially correct, as folic acid does contribute to brain development, but its primary role is in preventing neural tube defects. Option D) It increases maternal energy levels is incorrect as folic acid does not function to directly increase energy levels. Energy levels are influenced by factors like nutrition, rest, and overall health during pregnancy. Educationally, it is important for nurses to understand the specific roles of nutrients during pregnancy to educate and support expectant mothers in making informed choices for a healthy pregnancy outcome. Understanding the significance of folic acid in preventing birth defects empowers healthcare providers to emphasize its importance in prenatal care.