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-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 for several reasons. Firstly, it aligns with patient-centered care by providing resources for the patient to make an informed decision based on their individual needs and beliefs. These support groups can offer emotional support, information, and guidance throughout the decision-making process and beyond. Options A, informing the patient about pro-life options, is incorrect in this context as it may impose personal beliefs on the patient and could potentially compromise the patient's autonomy and right to make an informed choice about their reproductive health. Options C and D, being informed about abortion from a legal and ethical standpoint, are important for the nurse's overall knowledge base but are not directly related to the immediate support and care of the patient in this scenario. While understanding the legal and ethical aspects of abortion is essential for providing comprehensive care, in this specific situation, connecting the patient with appropriate support services is the most immediate and relevant action for the nurse to take. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of respecting patient autonomy, providing non-biased information, and offering support in a sensitive healthcare issue. Nurses must navigate complex ethical and legal considerations while upholding the principles of patient-centered care and ensuring access to resources that empower patients to make informed choices about their health.
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: The correct answer is A) Face the interpreter when speaking. When using an interpreter, it is crucial for the nurse to maintain eye contact and face the interpreter directly. This ensures effective communication and helps establish a connection with the patient through the interpreter. 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 good tip for effective communication but does not directly relate to utilizing an interpreter. Option D) Plan to use a male interpreter, even if a female interpreter is available is incorrect. The gender of the interpreter should be based on the patient's preference and comfort level, not predetermined by the nurse. In the context of maternal and child health, effective communication is crucial for providing safe and quality care to patients. Utilizing interpreters when language barriers exist is essential to ensure patients fully understand their care plans and can express their needs and concerns. Nurses must be mindful of cultural considerations and best practices when working with interpreters to facilitate meaningful and accurate communication with patients from diverse backgrounds.