A nurse is assessing a pregnant patient who is at 38 weeks gestation and reports a sudden decrease in fetal movement. What is the nurse's priority action?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, performing a nonstress test and assessing fetal heart rate. This is the priority action because a sudden decrease in fetal movement at 38 weeks gestation could indicate fetal distress or potential complications. A nonstress test helps evaluate fetal well-being by monitoring the fetal heart rate in response to fetal movement. This test provides immediate information about the baby's condition and any need for further intervention. Encouraging the patient to drink a cold beverage and lie down may not be effective in this situation, as it does not address the underlying cause of decreased fetal movement. Asking the patient to monitor fetal movements for 24 hours could delay necessary intervention, and waiting until the next prenatal appointment could lead to missed opportunities for timely assessment and management of fetal distress.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because taking folic acid throughout the entire pregnancy is crucial for supporting fetal development, especially in the early stages when the neural tube is forming. This statement reflects the patient's understanding of the importance of consistent folic acid intake during pregnancy. Choice B is incorrect because waiting until after the first trimester misses the critical period when the neural tube develops. Choice C is incorrect as folic acid is recommended for all pregnant women regardless of family history. Choice D is incorrect because while folic acid is beneficial for fetal development, it is not specifically linked to reducing the risk of gestational diabetes or hypertension.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C - Call the healthcare provider immediately and prepare for possible preterm labor. At 34 weeks gestation, sudden sharp abdominal pain and difficulty breathing could indicate a serious complication such as placental abruption or pulmonary embolism. Calling the healthcare provider ensures prompt assessment and appropriate intervention to prevent harm to the mother and baby. Encouraging the patient to lie down may delay necessary intervention. Administering pain medication before determining the cause of pain could mask important symptoms. Assessing the fetal heart rate and monitoring for contractions are important but secondary actions to calling the healthcare provider in this urgent situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Choice B is correct because folic acid is indeed important for preventing neural tube defects in the baby's brain and spine. These defects can occur in the early weeks of pregnancy, emphasizing the need for sufficient folic acid intake throughout pregnancy. Incorrect Choices: A: Stopping folic acid after the first trimester is not recommended as neural tube development occurs early in pregnancy. C: While a healthy diet is important, it may not provide enough folic acid during pregnancy, hence supplements are often recommended. D: Family history of birth defects is not the sole indication for taking folic acid, as all pregnant women benefit from its preventive effects.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to elevate her legs and rest regularly. This intervention is appropriate because elevating the legs helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return and decreasing fluid accumulation in the lower extremities. Resting regularly also helps reduce the strain on the circulatory system. Choice B is incorrect because increasing sodium intake can exacerbate fluid retention and swelling. Choice C is incorrect because administering diuretics during pregnancy can pose risks to the fetus and should only be done under medical supervision. Choice D is incorrect because limiting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and is not recommended during pregnancy, especially when experiencing swelling.