A pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation reports back pain. What should the nurse recommend?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because performing light stretching exercises and maintaining good posture can help alleviate back pain in pregnancy. Stretching helps to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility, while good posture reduces strain on the back. Choice B is incorrect because lying flat on the back can decrease blood flow to the uterus and may lead to dizziness and decreased oxygen supply to the fetus. Choice C is incorrect because not all over-the-counter pain medications are safe during pregnancy. It is important for pregnant women to consult their healthcare provider before taking any medication. Choice D is incorrect because prolonged bed rest can actually worsen back pain and may lead to other complications such as blood clots and muscle weakness. Staying active within limits is recommended during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because during the early phase of labor, the primary goal of nursing care is to promote relaxation and provide comfort measures to help the mother cope with contractions and manage pain. This helps create a calm and supportive environment, enhancing the progress of labor. Administering pain medication (A) may be necessary later, not necessarily in the early phase. Monitoring fetal heart rate continuously (B) is important but not the primary goal in the early phase. Preparing for imminent delivery (D) is premature in the early phase, as labor can be lengthy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary risk associated with a retained placenta is postpartum hemorrhage. When the placenta does not deliver completely after childbirth, it can lead to excessive bleeding, risking the mother's health. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications. Neonatal jaundice, delayed bonding, and postpartum anemia are not directly linked to a retained placenta, making them incorrect choices. Neonatal jaundice is caused by elevated bilirubin levels, delayed bonding is related to emotional factors, and postpartum anemia is characterized by low red blood cell count, none of which are the primary risk associated with a retained placenta.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: administer pain relief. Pain can be a common barrier to initiating breastfeeding. By providing pain relief, the postpartum person may feel more comfortable and be better able to initiate breastfeeding. Hand expression (A) may not address the underlying issue of pain. Offering additional support and education (C) may be beneficial but addressing pain is more urgent. Administering a breast pump (D) is not necessary at this stage unless there are specific indications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: administer tocolytics. Tocolytics help inhibit uterine contractions and can delay preterm labor, giving time for other interventions. Administering antibiotics (B) would not directly address preterm labor. Providing hydration and rest (C) may be helpful but not a direct intervention. Offering pain relief (D) does not address the underlying cause of preterm labor. Administering tocolytics is crucial in managing preterm labor to prevent premature birth and associated complications.