ATI RN
External Maternal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A pregnant patient is concerned about the use of caffeine during pregnancy. Which of the following statements by the nurse would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Moderate caffeine consumption is safe, but it is recommended to limit it to 200 mg per day during pregnancy. This answer is appropriate because it balances the potential risks of caffeine with the benefits of moderate consumption. Excessive caffeine intake has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, so setting a limit is a prudent approach. Explanation for Incorrect Choices: A: This statement is incorrect as excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy can have negative effects on the baby. C: Complete avoidance of caffeine is not necessary unless the individual has specific health concerns that warrant it. D: While high levels of caffeine can be linked to complications, the statement that caffeine always causes premature labor is an oversimplification.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 12 weeks gestation and reports feeling fatigued. Which of the following is the nurse's most appropriate response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. Fatigue is common in the first trimester due to hormonal changes and increased energy demands. 2. Second trimester typically brings relief as hormone levels stabilize and energy levels increase. 3. Reassuring the patient about the normalcy of fatigue promotes understanding and reduces anxiety. Summary: - Choice B focuses on rest but does not address the normalcy of fatigue in the first trimester. - Choice C jumps to conclusions without considering common causes first. - Choice D assumes iron deficiency without assessing the patient's overall health status.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is assessing a pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation who complains of pain in the lower abdomen and back. The nurse finds no signs of labor. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to rest and monitor for any changes in symptoms. At 36 weeks gestation, the patient might be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain, which are common in late pregnancy. Encouraging rest allows for potential relief of discomfort. Monitoring for any changes in symptoms is essential to rule out preterm labor. Option B is incorrect as administering pain medication without identifying the cause may mask symptoms of preterm labor. Option C is incorrect as performing a pelvic exam could potentially cause harm if the patient is experiencing preterm labor. Option D is incorrect as prolonged bed rest is not recommended in pregnancy and may not alleviate the pain or address the underlying cause.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 24 weeks gestation and reports difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Assessing the patient's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation is essential to determine the severity of the breathing difficulty. Step 2: It helps in identifying potential respiratory issues or complications that may require immediate intervention. Step 3: This data will guide the nurse in making informed decisions regarding further management and treatment. Step 4: Encouraging rest (B) may be appropriate after assessment. Administering oxygen and preparing for delivery (C) is premature without assessment. Asking the patient to lie on her left side (D) without initial assessment may delay necessary interventions.
Question 5 of 5
A pregnant patient is concerned about the safety of using over-the-counter medications for her cold symptoms. Which of the following responses is most appropriate for the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. During pregnancy, it is crucial to minimize medication use to prevent potential harm to the fetus. 2. Many OTC medications have not been extensively studied for safety in pregnancy. 3. Healthcare providers can recommend safe and effective treatment options tailored to the individual. 4. Avoiding unnecessary medication reduces the risk of adverse effects on the developing baby. Summary: A: Incorrect. Not all OTC medications are safe during pregnancy, and blanket statements can be harmful. C: Incorrect. Safety of OTC medications can vary by trimester, so blanket statements are not appropriate. D: Incorrect. Herbal remedies can also pose risks during pregnancy, and individualized guidance is necessary.