A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 24 weeks gestation and reports difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Assessing the patient's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation is essential to determine the severity of the breathing difficulty. Step 2: It helps in identifying potential respiratory issues or complications that may require immediate intervention. Step 3: This data will guide the nurse in making informed decisions regarding further management and treatment. Step 4: Encouraging rest (B) may be appropriate after assessment. Administering oxygen and preparing for delivery (C) is premature without assessment. Asking the patient to lie on her left side (D) without initial assessment may delay necessary interventions.

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.

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.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Regular contractions every 10 minutes or less. This is a key sign of preterm labor because regular contractions at this frequency could indicate the onset of labor before the full term. Contractions help to thin and dilate the cervix, leading to the birth of the baby. Decreased fetal movement (B) is a concerning sign but not a definitive indicator of preterm labor. Mild cramping and back pain (C) can be common in pregnancy and may not necessarily indicate preterm labor. Increased energy levels and appetite (D) are not typical signs of preterm labor, as the body usually shows signs of preparing for labor rather than increased energy levels.