A newly pregnant patient tells the nurse that she has irregular periods and is unsure of when she got pregnant. When is the best time for the nurse to schedule the patient’s ultrasound?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is option A) Immediately. Scheduling the ultrasound immediately is crucial in this scenario for several reasons. Firstly, in early pregnancy, it is essential to confirm the gestational age, viability of the pregnancy, and rule out ectopic pregnancy. This information is crucial for appropriate prenatal care planning. If the ultrasound is delayed, it could lead to potential risks for both the mother and the developing fetus. Delaying the ultrasound could also impact the accuracy of dating the pregnancy, which is essential for monitoring fetal growth and development throughout the pregnancy. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because waiting for 2, 4, or 6 weeks respectively could result in missed opportunities for early intervention if any complications are present. In early pregnancy, timely assessment and monitoring are vital for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. From an educational perspective, understanding the importance of early ultrasound in pregnancy is fundamental for nurses and healthcare providers involved in maternal care. It highlights the significance of prompt assessment and the impact it can have on subsequent care decisions and outcomes. This knowledge equips healthcare professionals to provide optimal care and support to pregnant women during this critical stage of pregnancy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is option C: "How do you feel about the results?" This response is appropriate because it focuses on the client's emotional well-being and allows her to express her feelings freely. This open-ended question encourages dialogue and shows empathy towards the client during this significant moment. Option A, "Congratulations, you and your family must be so happy," is inappropriate because assuming the client's emotions and family dynamics may not be accurate or sensitive to the client's individual situation. Option B, "Have you told the baby’s father yet?" is premature and invasive, as the client may not have made decisions about sharing the news. Option D, "Please tell me when your last menstrual period was," is irrelevant at this moment as the focus should be on emotional support rather than medical history. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to prioritize the emotional well-being of clients, especially in sensitive situations like pregnancy confirmation. By asking open-ended questions and actively listening to clients, nurses can provide better support and build trusting relationships with those under their care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) Body mass index of 17 kg/m². This finding is crucial to highlight to the nurse midwife because a low body mass index (BMI) in pregnancy, especially at 8 weeks of gestation, can indicate potential issues with maternal nutrition and overall health. Adequate maternal nutrition is essential for the health and development of the fetus. A low BMI can increase the risk of complications such as intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. Option B) Rubella titer of 1:8 is not typically a concern at 8 weeks of gestation unless the titer is significantly higher, indicating a lack of immunity to rubella, which could pose a risk to the fetus. Option C) Blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg is within the normal range for pregnancy and does not raise immediate concerns. Option D) Hematocrit of 30% is also within the acceptable range for pregnancy and does not require immediate attention. Educationally, it is important for nurses to understand the significance of various assessments in maternal monitoring during pregnancy. Highlighting the importance of BMI in pregnancy can help nurses recognize the impact of maternal nutrition on fetal development and overall pregnancy outcomes. This knowledge is crucial for providing effective prenatal care and promoting positive maternal and fetal health.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) You can take acetaminophen because it is a category 'B' medicine. Acetaminophen is considered safe for use during pregnancy when used as directed. It is classified as a category B medication, indicating no risk to the fetus in controlled studies. This response is best as it provides a safe and appropriate option for the client's headache. Option A is incorrect as it instills unnecessary fear and does not provide a specific recommendation. Option B is incorrect as not all over-the-counter medications are safe during pregnancy, and some may pose risks to the developing fetus. Option C is incorrect as category X medications are contraindicated during pregnancy due to their known risks to the fetus. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to have a sound understanding of medication safety during pregnancy to provide accurate guidance to pregnant clients. This scenario highlights the importance of knowing pregnancy categories and recommending safe options for common complaints like headaches. Proper education ensures the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Diarrhea. Evening primrose oil is often recommended to help ripen the cervix due to its prostaglandin content, which can stimulate uterine contractions. Diarrhea is a common side effect of prostaglandins, making it important for the client to report this to her healthcare provider. Option B) Pedal edema is unlikely to be caused by evening primrose oil and is not a typical side effect associated with its use in pregnancy. Option C) Blurred vision and D) Tinnitus are also not commonly reported side effects of evening primrose oil. From an educational perspective, it is crucial for healthcare providers, especially nurse midwives, to understand the potential side effects of commonly recommended interventions during pregnancy. This knowledge helps in providing appropriate guidance to pregnant women and ensures their safety and well-being. By explaining the rationale behind the correct answer and debunking the incorrect options, students and practitioners can enhance their pharmacological knowledge and clinical decision-making skills in maternal monitoring.