ATI RN
Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 40 weeks gestation and is experiencing a sudden increase in vaginal discharge. What is the nurse's priority action?
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.
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient is 30 weeks gestation and is concerned about gestational hypertension. Which of the following is a key sign of gestational hypertension?
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.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient is at 28 weeks gestation and is diagnosed with gestational diabetes. What is the most important aspect of the patient's care plan?
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.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient at 38 weeks gestation who is experiencing sudden, severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Call the healthcare provider immediately to report the symptoms. This is the first step because sudden, severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding in a pregnant patient at 38 weeks gestation could indicate a serious complication such as placental abruption or preterm labor. Notifying the healthcare provider promptly allows for timely intervention and appropriate management. Choice A is incorrect as assessing the fetal heart rate and preparing for delivery should not be the first action without consulting the healthcare provider. Choice B is incorrect as encouraging the patient to rest is not appropriate in this emergent situation. Choice D is incorrect as providing pain relief and monitoring vital signs should not take precedence over notifying the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation who has been diagnosed with preeclampsia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because monitoring the patient's blood pressure and assessing for signs of worsening preeclampsia is crucial in managing the condition and preventing potential complications. At 36 weeks gestation, close monitoring is essential to detect any changes in the patient's condition promptly. Increasing fluid intake (choice A) may not be recommended for patients with preeclampsia due to the risk of fluid overload. Providing education about managing gestational diabetes (choice C) is irrelevant in this scenario. Administering pain relief (choice D) may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of worsening preeclampsia. Prioritizing blood pressure monitoring ensures timely intervention and management of preeclampsia to promote the well-being of both the patient and the baby.