ATI RN
External Maternal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A pregnant patient at 28 weeks gestation reports severe heartburn. What is the nurse's most appropriate recommendation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. This recommendation helps prevent overeating, which can contribute to heartburn. Smaller meals reduce pressure on the stomach, decreasing the likelihood of acid reflux. Eating more frequently also helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, which can further alleviate heartburn symptoms. Explanation for other choices: A: Over-the-counter antacids may provide temporary relief, but taking them regularly can lead to potential risks during pregnancy. C: Lying down immediately after eating can worsen heartburn symptoms as it allows stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus. D: Drinking large amounts of water with meals can dilute stomach acid, but it may also distend the stomach and increase pressure, leading to heartburn.
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation is complaining of severe heartburn. What should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Eat smaller meals more frequently and avoid lying down after meals. This is the best recommendation for the pregnant patient experiencing severe heartburn at 30 weeks gestation. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help reduce the amount of stomach acid produced, thus decreasing the likelihood of heartburn. Avoiding lying down after meals can prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, further reducing heartburn symptoms. Rationale for why other choices are incorrect: A: Lying down after meals can worsen heartburn by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. B: Drinking a large amount of water after eating may worsen heartburn by increasing stomach pressure and pushing stomach acid back up. D: Taking antacids regularly may provide temporary relief but is not addressing the root cause of the heartburn and may not be safe for long-term use during pregnancy.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient is at 24 weeks gestation and reports occasional cramping and lower abdominal discomfort. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess for signs of preterm labor and monitor the patient for regular contractions. This is the most appropriate action as the patient is experiencing cramping and lower abdominal discomfort, which could indicate preterm labor. Step 1: Assessing for signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, is crucial to determine the patient's condition. Step 2: Monitoring the patient for regular contractions helps in identifying any patterns and assessing the progression of labor. Other choices are incorrect as B: Administering pain medications without assessing for preterm labor can mask important indicators. C: Performing a pelvic exam may increase the risk of infection and is not the priority. D: Instructing the patient to increase fluid intake may not address the potential risk of preterm labor.
Question 4 of 5
A pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation reports difficulty breathing when lying flat. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because positioning the patient in a semi-reclined or left side position can alleviate pressure on the diaphragm and improve breathing. This position helps optimize blood flow to the uterus and placenta. Encouraging rest in this position can improve oxygenation for both the mother and fetus. Administering oxygen (Choice B) may help with oxygenation but does not address the underlying issue of positional discomfort. Monitoring fetal heart rate (Choice C) is important but not the first action to address the mother's breathing difficulty. Instructing the patient to take shallow breaths and stay in bed (Choice D) does not address the positional component of the issue.
Question 5 of 5
A pregnant patient is at 28 weeks gestation and reports occasional headaches and blurred vision. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor the patient's blood pressure and check for signs of preeclampsia. 1. Headaches and blurred vision are common symptoms of preeclampsia. 2. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can lead to complications for both the mother and baby. 3. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial in diagnosing preeclampsia and determining the appropriate course of action. 4. Prompt assessment and management of preeclampsia are essential to prevent further complications. Incorrect choices: B: Administering pain relief and encouraging rest does not address the underlying cause of the symptoms, which could be preeclampsia. C: Assessing vision and scheduling an appointment with an eye specialist does not address the urgent need to assess for preeclampsia. D: Encouraging fluid intake and avoiding strenuous activity may be helpful in general, but they do not address the potential seriousness of preeclampsia in this