A patient presents with fever, chills, headache, and myalgia after returning from a trip to sub-Saharan Africa. Laboratory tests reveal intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination. Which of the following is the most likely causative agent?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The clinical presentation of fever, chills, headache, and myalgia following a trip to sub-Saharan Africa is highly suggestive of malaria, which is caused by the Plasmodium species. Specifically, the presence of intraerythrocytic ring forms and trophozoites on blood smear examination points towards Plasmodium falciparum as the most likely causative agent.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Incompetent cervix, also known as cervical insufficiency, is the most likely cause of the symptoms described. Incompetent cervix is a condition where the cervix begins to dilate and efface prematurely, typically in the second trimester, without contractions or labor. This can lead to painless cervical dilation and bulging of the amniotic sac into the vagina, which can cause vaginal bleeding and crampy abdominal pain. It is a leading cause of second-trimester pregnancy loss. Treatment may involve a cervical cerclage, a surgical procedure where the cervix is stitched closed to provide additional support.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Uterine rupture is a serious obstetric emergency that involves a tear or rupture of the uterine wall during pregnancy. In this scenario, the pregnant woman with severe lower abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and a tender, distended abdomen is showing signs consistent with uterine rupture. These symptoms are typically not seen with other conditions listed.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a woman in active labor is receiving intravenous oxytocin for labor augmentation, it is essential to increase the oxytocin infusion rate gradually to prevent oxytocin-induced uterine hyperstimulation. Uterine hyperstimulation can lead to complications such as fetal distress, uterine rupture, and postpartum hemorrhage. By increasing the oxytocin infusion rate gradually, the uterus has more time to adapt to the medication and reduces the risk of hyperstimulation. It is crucial for the healthcare provider to carefully monitor the woman's response to oxytocin and adjust the infusion rate as needed to ensure safe and effective labor augmentation. Monitoring for signs of uterine hyperstimulation, such as persistent contractions close together or excessive uterine activity, is crucial in preventing complications and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and baby.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the case of a woman in active labor with placenta previa, the priority nursing intervention is to prepare for an immediate cesarean section. Placenta previa is a condition in which the placenta covers part or all of the cervix, which can lead to severe bleeding during labor and delivery. The risk of hemorrhage is significant, making a cesarean section the safest option for both the mother and the baby in this situation. It is crucial to act promptly to prevent complications and ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Administering intravenous oxytocin to augment labor or inserting a Foley catheter to monitor urine output would not address the immediate risk of hemorrhage associated with placenta previa. Implementing bed rest and continuous fetal monitoring may be part of the overall care plan but not the priority intervention in this urgent situation.