ATI RN
External Maternal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assessing a pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation who complains of pain in the lower abdomen and back. The nurse finds no signs of labor. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to rest and monitor for any changes in symptoms. At 36 weeks gestation, the patient might be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain, which are common in late pregnancy. Encouraging rest allows for potential relief of discomfort. Monitoring for any changes in symptoms is essential to rule out preterm labor. Option B is incorrect as administering pain medication without identifying the cause may mask symptoms of preterm labor. Option C is incorrect as performing a pelvic exam could potentially cause harm if the patient is experiencing preterm labor. Option D is incorrect as prolonged bed rest is not recommended in pregnancy and may not alleviate the pain or address the underlying cause.
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient is concerned about the safety of using over-the-counter medications for her cold symptoms. Which of the following responses is most appropriate for the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. During pregnancy, it is crucial to minimize medication use to prevent potential harm to the fetus. 2. Many OTC medications have not been extensively studied for safety in pregnancy. 3. Healthcare providers can recommend safe and effective treatment options tailored to the individual. 4. Avoiding unnecessary medication reduces the risk of adverse effects on the developing baby. Summary: A: Incorrect. Not all OTC medications are safe during pregnancy, and blanket statements can be harmful. C: Incorrect. Safety of OTC medications can vary by trimester, so blanket statements are not appropriate. D: Incorrect. Herbal remedies can also pose risks during pregnancy, and individualized guidance is necessary.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation reports feeling short of breath when lying flat. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because positioning the pregnant patient in a more upright position can help alleviate the shortness of breath by allowing the diaphragm to move more freely, reducing pressure on the lungs, and improving oxygenation. This action promotes optimal oxygen flow and comfort for the patient. A: Administering oxygen and preparing for delivery may be necessary in some cases but does not address the immediate need to alleviate shortness of breath caused by the supine position. C: Deep breathing exercises may not be effective in relieving shortness of breath caused by the supine position and may even exacerbate the discomfort. D: Instructing the patient to take shallow breaths and avoid exertion does not address the underlying cause of shortness of breath and may not provide adequate relief.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient who is 32 weeks pregnant and is concerned about gestational diabetes. Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "You can control gestational diabetes with regular exercise and a healthy diet." This is the most appropriate statement because managing gestational diabetes through lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and a healthy diet is a key component of treatment. By controlling blood sugar levels through these methods, complications for both the mother and baby can be reduced. Choice A is incorrect because gestational diabetes may not always resolve after delivery and can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Choice B is incorrect as it confuses the risk of the baby developing diabetes with the mother's condition. Choice D is incorrect as gestational diabetes is not rare and requires monitoring and sometimes treatment to manage effectively.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 22 weeks gestation and is concerned about her weight gain. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates the need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Correct Answer: C - "I can eat for two during my pregnancy to ensure the baby's growth." Rationale: 1. Eating for two is a common misconception; the pregnant woman only needs an additional 300-500 calories per day. 2. Overeating can lead to excessive weight gain which may pose risks to both the mother and the baby. 3. The statement does not reflect an accurate understanding of healthy nutrition during pregnancy. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: Choosing to gain 1 to 2 pounds per week aligns with healthy weight gain during pregnancy. B: Avoiding excessive food intake is an appropriate strategy to prevent excessive weight gain. D: Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise are essential for supporting a healthy pregnancy.