A pregnant patient is at 32 weeks gestation and reports swelling of the feet and legs. What is the most appropriate recommendation for the nurse to make?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Elevating the legs and avoiding prolonged standing is the most appropriate recommendation for a pregnant patient experiencing swelling at 32 weeks gestation. Elevating the legs helps to reduce swelling by aiding in venous return and reducing fluid accumulation in the lower extremities. Prolonged standing can worsen swelling due to increased pressure on the veins. Limiting fluid intake (choice A) may lead to dehydration and is not recommended during pregnancy. Applying compression stockings (choice C) may help improve circulation but may not address the underlying cause of swelling. Resting in bed with feet elevated at all times (choice D) is excessive and may not be practical for the patient.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because assessing the patient's posture and recommending appropriate exercises can help alleviate lower back pain during pregnancy. Poor posture and lack of exercise are common causes of back pain in pregnancy. Administering pain medication as in choice A may not address the root cause. Instructing the patient to lie flat on her back (choice C) can actually worsen back pain and pose risks during pregnancy. Performing a pelvic exam (choice D) is not necessary unless there are specific indications for it related to the patient's complaint. Therefore, choice B is the most appropriate initial action to address the lower back pain in this pregnant patient.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Monitoring the fetal heart rate and checking for signs of labor is the most appropriate action as it allows the nurse to assess the status of the pregnancy and the potential onset of preterm labor. This proactive approach helps in early identification and management of any concerning signs or symptoms. Administering magnesium sulfate (choice B) is not appropriate without proper assessment and indication. Encouraging rest and symptom monitoring (choice C) is beneficial but may not be sufficient for evaluating preterm labor. Recommending the patient lie flat on her back for 24 hours (choice D) is not evidence-based and could potentially cause harm.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess the patient's blood pressure and check for signs of preeclampsia. This is the priority action because sudden headache and blurred vision are symptoms of preeclampsia, a serious condition in pregnancy. Step 1: Assessing blood pressure is crucial to identify hypertension, a hallmark of preeclampsia. Step 2: Checking for other signs of preeclampsia, such as proteinuria and edema, helps confirm the diagnosis. Step 3: Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the potential life-threatening condition of preeclampsia and may delay appropriate treatment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor the patient's hydration status and assess for signs of dehydration. This is the priority action because nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can lead to dehydration, which can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. By monitoring the patient's hydration status and assessing for signs of dehydration, the nurse can ensure early intervention if dehydration occurs. Incorrect choices: A: Instruct the patient to take over-the-counter anti-nausea medication - This is not the priority as dehydration needs to be addressed first. C: Encourage the patient to eat large meals more frequently to prevent nausea - This may exacerbate the nausea and vomiting, leading to further dehydration. D: Recommend the patient avoid drinking fluids to prevent further vomiting - Dehydration can worsen if the patient avoids fluids.