ATI RN
Current Issues in Maternal and Child Health Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse working in a labor and birth unit is asked to take care of two high-risk patients in the labor and birth suite: a 34 weeks’ gestation 28-year-old gravida 3, para 2 in preterm labor and a 40-year-old gravida 1, para 0 who is severely preeclamptic. The nurse refuses this assignment telling the charge nurse that based on individual patient acuity, each patient should have one-on-one care. Which ethical principle is the nurse advocating?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Justice is the ethical principle that involves fair and equal distribution of resources and care. In this scenario, the nurse is advocating for justice by asserting that each high-risk patient should receive one-on-one care based on their individual acuity levels. By refusing to take on both patients simultaneously, the nurse is advocating for fairness and equal opportunity for proper care and attention for each patient. This is in line with the principle of justice, which emphasizes the importance of treating all individuals fairly and providing them with the appropriate level of care they need.
Question 2 of 5
A patient who is 6 months pregnant has sought medical attention, saying she fell down the stairs. Which scenario would cause an emergency department nurse to suspect that the woman has been battered?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the emergency department nurse would be most likely to suspect that the woman has been battered based on the presence of injuries on various parts of her body that are in different stages of healing. This pattern of injuries, known as the "battered woman syndrome," is a red flag for domestic violence. The varying stages of healing indicate that the injuries are not from a single accidental fall down the stairs but rather from repeated incidents of physical abuse. Additionally, the fact that the injuries are in different locations on the body further suggests that they are not the result of a single traumatic event. This situation warrants further investigation and intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the pregnant woman and her unborn child.
Question 3 of 5
While teaching an Asian patient regarding prenatal care, the nurse notes that the patient refuses to make eye contact. Which is the most likely cause for this behavior?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In many Asian cultures, avoiding eye contact can be a sign of respect, modesty, or a way to show deference to authority figures. Making direct eye contact during a conversation, especially with someone in a position of authority like a healthcare provider, can be seen as disrespectful or confrontational. Understanding and respecting these cultural beliefs is crucial when providing care to patients from diverse backgrounds. It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of these cultural differences and adjust their communication styles accordingly to ensure effective and culturally sensitive care.
Question 4 of 5
The clinic nurse often cares for patients who are considering an abortion. Which responsibilities does this nurse have in regard to this issue? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and maternal and child health, the responsibility of a clinic nurse caring for patients considering abortion is multifaceted. Option B, informing the patient about pro-choice support groups, is the correct choice. This is crucial as it ensures that patients have access to comprehensive information and support services to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. Option A, informing the patient about pro-life options, is incorrect as it may introduce bias and limit the patient's autonomy in decision-making. The role of the nurse is to provide unbiased information and support, respecting the patient's right to make their own choices. Options C and D, being informed about abortion from a legal and ethical standpoint, are important aspects of nursing practice. However, in the context of this question, they are not directly related to the nurse's immediate responsibilities when caring for patients considering abortion. While legal and ethical considerations are essential in healthcare, the primary focus should be on providing non-judgmental support and access to resources that align with the patient's needs and beliefs. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of nurses being knowledgeable about reproductive health options, being sensitive to patient preferences, and providing support without imposing personal beliefs. It underscores the significance of patient-centered care and the ethical responsibility of healthcare providers to respect autonomy and promote informed decision-making in sensitive healthcare issues.
Question 5 of 5
A Vietnamese patient who speaks little English is admitted to the labor and birth unit in early labor. The nurse plans to use an interpreter during an initial assessment. Which should the nurse plan to implement with regard to using an interpreter? (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) Face the interpreter when speaking. When using an interpreter to communicate with a patient who speaks little English, it is essential to face the interpreter because you are primarily addressing the patient, not the interpreter. This ensures that the patient feels respected and included in the conversation. Option B) Listen carefully to what the patient says is a good practice in any communication situation but does not specifically address the use of an interpreter. Option C) Speak slowly and smile when appropriate is a helpful general communication tip but is not directly related to the use of an interpreter. Option D) Plan to use a male interpreter, even if a female interpreter is available is incorrect as the gender of the interpreter should not play a role in the decision-making process. It is essential to choose the interpreter most suited to facilitate clear and accurate communication between the healthcare provider and the patient. In the context of maternal and child health, effective communication is crucial for ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the child. Using an interpreter appropriately helps to gather accurate information, provide the necessary care, and establish trust with the patient. By facing the interpreter when speaking, the nurse acknowledges the patient's presence and fosters a supportive and culturally sensitive environment for the patient.