A nurse is assessing a 36-week pregnant patient who is complaining of sudden and severe headaches. What is the nurse's priority action?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the patient's blood pressure and check for signs of preeclampsia. Sudden and severe headaches in a pregnant patient could indicate preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure. The nurse's priority is to assess for signs of preeclampsia to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Encouraging rest or a warm shower, administering pain medication, or advising hydration do not address the potential underlying issue of preeclampsia and could delay necessary medical intervention.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the sudden increase in vaginal discharge at 40 weeks gestation could indicate the onset of labor. Checking for signs of labor, such as contractions and assessing fetal heart rate, is crucial to determine if the patient is in active labor. This helps in timely intervention and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and baby. Summary: - Choice B: Encouraging rest and monitoring changes in discharge may not address the urgency of the situation. - Choice C: Performing a pelvic exam without assessing signs of labor or fetal well-being may delay necessary actions. - Choice D: While reporting to the healthcare provider is important, immediate assessment of labor signs and fetal heart rate takes precedence.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer, B, is appropriate because it emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider to ensure the safety of prescription medications during pregnancy. This step is crucial as healthcare providers can assess the risks versus benefits of medication use in pregnancy and provide personalized recommendations. Choice A is incorrect as some medications may be necessary for the health of the mother and baby. Choice C is incorrect as not all prescription medications are safe during pregnancy. Choice D is incorrect as the safety of prescription medications in pregnancy is not solely determined by whether they are over-the-counter or not. Consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sudden swelling of the hands and feet. Gestational hypertension is characterized by sudden onset of high blood pressure after 20 weeks of pregnancy, leading to fluid retention and swelling. This is known as preeclampsia, a severe form of gestational hypertension. Swelling in the hands and feet is a key sign due to fluid imbalance. Severe headache and visual changes (choice A) are more indicative of preeclampsia complications. Excessive weight loss and fatigue (choice C) are not typical signs of gestational hypertension. Frequent urination and dehydration (choice D) are not directly related to gestational hypertension.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitoring blood glucose levels and maintaining a balanced diet. This is crucial for managing gestational diabetes, as it helps control blood sugar levels to prevent complications for both the mother and baby. Regular monitoring ensures timely adjustments to treatment. A balanced diet helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides essential nutrients for the baby's growth. Choice A is important but not as critical as monitoring blood glucose levels, as weight gain should be monitored but is not the primary focus in gestational diabetes. Choice C is not directly related to managing gestational diabetes. Choice D may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the most important aspect of care compared to monitoring blood glucose levels and diet.