A pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation reports feeling short of breath when lying flat. What is the most appropriate recommendation for the nurse to make?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because instructing the patient to rest in an upright position helps reduce pressure on the diaphragm, allowing for better lung expansion and improved breathing capacity. This position can alleviate the shortness of breath experienced when lying flat due to the growing uterus pressing on the diaphragm. Option A is incorrect because lying on the left side may not alleviate the pressure on the diaphragm as effectively as an upright position. Option B may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause. Option D focuses on symptom management rather than addressing the positional discomfort caused by the pregnancy.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Apply compression stockings. This intervention is appropriate for a postpartum person at risk for DVT as it helps promote circulation and prevent blood clots by applying pressure to the legs. Compression stockings are a safe and non-invasive method to reduce the risk of DVT. Encouraging ambulation (choice A) is important but may not be feasible immediately postpartum. Administering low-molecular-weight heparin (choice C) would require a prescription and may not be the first-line intervention. Monitoring for signs of edema (choice D) is important but does not directly address the prevention of DVT like compression stockings do.