ATI RN
Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A pregnant patient at 28 weeks gestation reports dizziness and faintness when standing. What is the nurse's most appropriate recommendation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Instruct the patient to increase fluid intake and stand slowly. This recommendation is appropriate because the patient is likely experiencing orthostatic hypotension due to the expanding uterus compressing blood vessels, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain when standing. Increasing fluid intake helps maintain blood volume, while standing slowly helps prevent sudden drops in blood pressure. A: Rising quickly can worsen dizziness by further decreasing blood flow to the brain. C: Resting in bed may not address the underlying issue of orthostatic hypotension and may lead to deconditioning. D: Avoiding standing for long periods may be impractical and may not address the need to maintain adequate blood volume and prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient at 28 weeks gestation reports leg cramps and lower back pain. What should the nurse recommend to alleviate these symptoms?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Leg cramps and lower back pain in pregnancy can be relieved by taking a warm bath and performing leg stretches. Warm water helps relax muscles, while stretching can alleviate muscle tension. This is safe and effective for pregnant patients. Choice B is incorrect because applying a heating pad may not be recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of overheating. Resting in bed may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause. Choice C is incorrect because increasing calcium intake and taking over-the-counter pain medications may not specifically target muscle cramps and back pain. It is essential to address the symptoms directly. Choice D is incorrect because encouraging light physical activity may be beneficial, but avoiding long periods of rest may not be necessary. Stretching and warm baths are more specific interventions for muscle cramps and back pain.
Question 3 of 5
What procedure might the nurse perform to determine the presentation of the fetus?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: ultrasound. Ultrasound is the most accurate and non-invasive method to determine the presentation of the fetus by visualizing the position of the baby in the womb. It allows the nurse to see if the fetus is in a cephalic (head-down) or breech (feet or buttocks down) position. This information is crucial for assessing the progress of labor and planning appropriate interventions. A: Vaginal exam is not typically used to determine fetal presentation as it does not provide a clear view of the baby's position. C: Palpation of contractions helps assess the strength and frequency of contractions but does not directly determine fetal presentation. D: Laboring person interview may provide valuable information about symptoms and history but does not offer direct insight into fetal presentation.
Question 4 of 5
How long should clamping of the cord be delayed in an uncomplicated delivery to increase the newborn's hemoglobin levels and improve circulation?
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.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a postpartum person during the fourth stage of labor. The nurse is assessing uterine involution to ensure that the uterus is returning to its prepregnancy size and position. Which finding is indicative of normal uterine involution during this stage?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because during the fourth stage of labor, the uterine fundus should be firm and at the level of the umbilicus. This indicates proper involution as the uterus is contracting and reducing in size. Choice A is incorrect as the uterus should not be palpable at the level of the umbilicus during normal involution. Choice C is incorrect as the uterus should not be displaced to the right side of the abdomen. Choice D is incorrect as the uterus should not be above the level of the umbilicus, as this would suggest inadequate involution.