A client in a prenatal clinic is pregnant and experiencing episodes of maternal hypotension. The client asks the nurse what causes these episodes. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: This is due to the weight of the uterus on the vena cava. Maternal hypotension during pregnancy can occur when the growing uterus compresses the vena cava, reducing blood flow back to the heart and causing a drop in blood pressure. This compression can lead to decreased blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, resulting in symptoms of hypotension. The other choices are incorrect because: A: An increase in blood volume during pregnancy typically leads to an increase in blood pressure, not hypotension. B: Pressure from the uterus on the diaphragm may cause discomfort or shortness of breath but is not the primary cause of maternal hypotension. D: Increased cardiac output is a normal adaptation in pregnancy to meet the demands of the growing fetus and placenta, but it does not directly cause maternal hypotension.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: Unilateral breast pain in a postpartum client can indicate mastitis, a bacterial infection of the breast tissue. This requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications like abscess formation. Other Choices: A: Abdominal striae are normal after pregnancy and don't require immediate intervention. B: Mild temperature elevation is common postpartum and doesn't necessarily indicate infection. D: Brownish-red discharge on day 5 is typically normal lochia and not concerning unless foul-smelling or accompanied by fever.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Petechiae over the head. This is because tight nuchal cord can cause pressure on the baby's head during delivery, leading to tiny red or purple spots called petechiae due to capillary rupture. Bruising over the buttocks (A) is more common in breech deliveries, hard nodules on the roof of the mouth (B) could indicate Epstein pearls which are benign and common in newborns, and bilateral periauricular papillomas (D) are not related to nuchal cord compression.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. Magnesium sulfate toxicity can lead to respiratory depression (respirations less than 12/min), decreased urinary output (less than 25 mL/hr), and altered mental status (decreased level of consciousness). Respiratory depression occurs due to the impact of magnesium on the central nervous system. Decreased urinary output is a result of magnesium's effects on renal blood flow. Altered mental status is a common sign of magnesium toxicity affecting brain function. Reporting these signs promptly is crucial to prevent serious complications. The other choices (A, B, C) are incorrect because they are all potential signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity and should be reported.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Checking the strings of the IUD after periods ensures that the device is in place. This indicates understanding of IUD maintenance. Choice A is incorrect because IUDs usually last 3-10 years and do not need annual replacement. Choice B is incorrect because nulliparous women can also use IUDs. Choice C is incorrect as fertility typically returns quickly after IUD removal, not necessarily after 5 months.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Perform the pelvic rock exercise every day. This exercise helps strengthen the core muscles, which can alleviate backache during pregnancy. It also promotes flexibility in the lower back and pelvis. Avoiding any lifting (A) is not a practical measure as some lifting may be necessary in daily activities. Performing Kegel exercises (B) strengthens pelvic floor muscles but does not directly address backache. Avoiding standing for prolonged periods (D) can help reduce backache but is not as effective as specific exercises targeting the back muscles like the pelvic rock exercise.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Attention-focusing. At 40 weeks gestation with a platelet count of 75,000/mm3, epidural analgesia is contraindicated due to the risk of epidural hematoma. Naloxone hydrochloride is an opioid antagonist used for opioid overdose, not for labor pain relief. Pudendal nerve block is used for local anesthesia during the second stage of labor, not for early labor pain relief. Attention-focusing techniques can help the client manage pain without pharmacological interventions, ensuring safety for both the client and the baby.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitor the FHR continuously. This is essential in preeclampsia as magnesium sulfate can affect fetal heart rate (FHR). Continuous monitoring helps detect any changes promptly. A: Monitoring blood pressure is important but not as critical as FHR monitoring in this scenario. B: Restricting total hourly intake to 200 mL is not necessary for magnesium sulfate administration. D: Administering protamine sulfate is incorrect as it is used for heparin toxicity, not magnesium sulfate toxicity.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a client in active labor at 39 weeks of gestation has early decelerations in the FHR on the monitor tracing is to continue monitoring the client. Early decelerations are typically benign and are associated with head compression during contractions, which is a normal response to labor. There is no need to discontinue the oxytocin infusion as early decelerations do not indicate fetal distress. Requesting the provider to assess the client may not be necessary at this point unless other concerning signs are present. Increasing the infusion rate of the maintenance IV fluid is not indicated as it would not address the early decelerations. Therefore, the best course of action is to continue monitoring the client for any changes in the FHR pattern.