A pregnant patient at 24 weeks gestation reports occasional dizziness and lightheadedness. What should the nurse assess first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The patient's blood pressure and hydration status should be assessed first because dizziness and lightheadedness can be indicative of hypotension or dehydration, common issues during pregnancy. Monitoring blood pressure will help determine if the symptoms are related to low blood pressure, and assessing hydration status can identify if the patient needs to increase fluid intake. Summary of other choices: B: Assessing fetal heart rate and activity is important but not the priority in this situation as the focus should be on the maternal health first. C: Checking hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is important for detecting anemia, but it is not the initial assessment for dizziness and lightheadedness. D: Monitoring weight gain and diet history are essential aspects of prenatal care but are not the immediate concerns when a pregnant patient is experiencing dizziness and lightheadedness.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, instructing the pregnant woman to get up slowly and avoid standing for long periods. This is because during pregnancy, blood pressure can drop when standing up quickly, leading to dizziness and fainting. Getting up slowly allows the body to adjust gradually, preventing a sudden drop in blood pressure. Standing for long periods can worsen these symptoms, so it is important to avoid prolonged standing. A: Lying down flat on the back immediately can worsen symptoms in this case by reducing blood flow to the brain. B: Standing up quickly can exacerbate dizziness and fainting by causing a sudden drop in blood pressure. C: Drinking a large amount of water may not address the underlying issue of postural hypotension and could potentially worsen symptoms by increasing blood volume without addressing the drop in blood pressure.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increase fluid intake and avoid standing for long periods. This recommendation is appropriate for the patient's symptoms of lightheadedness and fainting, which could be due to dehydration or low blood pressure common in pregnancy. Increasing fluid intake can help maintain adequate blood volume and pressure. Avoiding prolonged standing can prevent pooling of blood in the lower extremities, reducing the risk of dizziness. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Taking deep breaths and rising quickly may worsen symptoms by causing a sudden drop in blood pressure. C: Complete rest and avoiding physical activity may not address the underlying issue of hydration or blood pressure. D: Sitting upright and avoiding bending forward may not directly address the need for increased fluid intake and reduced standing time.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: proper positioning. Proper positioning is crucial for successful breastfeeding as it ensures the baby latches on effectively, leading to efficient milk transfer and preventing nipple pain or damage. Incorrect answers: A: frequent breastfeeding - While important, proper positioning is more critical for successful breastfeeding. C: supportive communication - While important for overall well-being, it is not the most crucial factor for successful breastfeeding. D: promote rest and hydration - While important for the postpartum person's health, proper positioning is key for successful breastfeeding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A (30-60 seconds) for delayed cord clamping in an uncomplicated delivery. Delaying cord clamping for 30-60 seconds allows more blood to flow from the placenta to the baby, increasing the baby's hemoglobin levels and improving circulation. This extra blood transfer can provide the baby with essential nutrients and oxygen, reducing the risk of anemia and improving overall health outcomes. Choice B (15-30 seconds) may not provide enough time for sufficient blood transfer compared to the optimal window of 30-60 seconds. Choice C (30 seconds) is within the recommended range, but 30-60 seconds is considered more beneficial for maximizing blood flow to the newborn. Choice D (Delayed cord clamping is not recommended) is incorrect as delayed cord clamping has been shown to have various benefits for newborns when done in uncomplicated deliveries.