A pregnant woman asks why she needs to take a folic acid supplement. What is the nurse's best explanation for the administration of folic acid?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Folic acid prevents neural tube birth defects. Folic acid is a crucial nutrient during early pregnancy as it plays a key role in the development of the fetal neural tube, which eventually forms the baby's brain and spinal cord. By ensuring an adequate intake of folic acid, the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly can be significantly reduced. Option A) Folic acid does not prevent the development of contractions. Contractions are a natural part of the labor process and are not influenced by folic acid intake. Option C) Folic acid does not directly build fetal bones. While calcium is essential for bone development, folic acid primarily focuses on neural tube formation. Option D) Folic acid does not specifically target nausea and vomiting. Although some studies suggest a possible link between folic acid and reducing nausea, its primary role is in preventing neural tube defects rather than alleviating pregnancy symptoms. Educationally, it is important for healthcare providers to understand the specific benefits of folic acid in early pregnancy to effectively educate and counsel pregnant women on its importance. By emphasizing the role of folic acid in preventing neural tube defects, nurses can empower women to make informed decisions about their prenatal care to promote the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D) Depressed deep tendon reflexes. When a patient's serum magnesium level is elevated, as in this case of magnesium sulfate administration, it can lead to hypermagnesemia. One of the hallmark signs of hypermagnesemia is the depression of deep tendon reflexes due to the inhibitory effect of magnesium on neuromuscular transmission. This presents as decreased or absent reflexes upon physical examination. Option A) Tachypnea is not typically associated with elevated magnesium levels. Instead, respiratory depression can occur in severe cases of hypermagnesemia. Option B) Muscle rigidity is more commonly seen in conditions like malignant hyperthermia or neuroleptic malignant syndrome, not specifically in cases of elevated magnesium levels. Option C) Tachycardia is not a characteristic sign of hypermagnesemia. In fact, magnesium can have a stabilizing effect on the heart and is used to treat certain cardiac arrhythmias. Educational Context: Understanding the signs and symptoms of hypermagnesemia is crucial for healthcare providers, especially in the context of administering medications like magnesium sulfate for preterm labor. Recognizing the manifestations of elevated magnesium levels can help prevent serious complications such as respiratory depression and cardiac arrhythmias. Regular monitoring of serum magnesium levels and clinical assessment for signs like depressed deep tendon reflexes are essential in managing patients receiving magnesium therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of administering magnesium sulfate, it is crucial for the nurse to assess the patient for respiratory depression. Magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant and can lead to respiratory depression as a side effect. Monitoring the patient's respiratory rate and depth is essential to detect any signs of respiratory distress promptly. Regarding the other options: A) Dry, pale skin: This is not a typical assessment finding associated with magnesium sulfate administration. Dry, pale skin may indicate other issues such as dehydration or poor perfusion. C) Agitation: Agitation is not a common side effect of magnesium sulfate. Instead, magnesium sulfate is known to have a calming effect on the central nervous system. D) Tachycardia: While magnesium sulfate can affect heart rate, it is more likely to cause bradycardia rather than tachycardia. Therefore, tachycardia would not be the primary assessment focus when administering magnesium sulfate. From an educational perspective, understanding the potential side effects and assessments related to medications like magnesium sulfate is crucial for nurses to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Proper assessment skills and knowledge of medication effects are essential components of nursing practice to provide high-quality care to patients.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In early pregnancy, gastroesophageal reflux is a common issue due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus putting pressure on the stomach. The most highly recommended medication for this symptom is Ranitidine (Zantac). Ranitidine is a histamine-2 blocker that reduces stomach acid production, providing relief from reflux without adverse effects on the fetus. Option A, Terbutaline (Brethine), is a bronchodilator used to relax the uterus in preterm labor, not indicated for reflux. Option B, Diphenoxylate (Lomotil), is an antidiarrheal medication, not effective for reflux. Option D, Chlorothiazide (Diuril), is a diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and edema, not relevant for gastroesophageal reflux. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind choosing the correct medication reinforces the importance of considering the physiological changes in pregnancy and selecting safe and effective treatments. It also highlights the need for healthcare providers to have a comprehensive knowledge of medications commonly used in pregnancy to provide optimal care for pregnant individuals.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the scenario presented, the correct answer is D) Dinoprostone (Cervidil). This medication is administered to promote cervical ripening in a woman at 42 weeks of gestation. Dinoprostone is a prostaglandin E2 analog that helps soften and dilate the cervix, preparing it for labor induction. Option A) Calcium gluconate is a mineral supplement and has no role in cervical ripening. Option B) Magnesium sulfate is commonly used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia and eclampsia, not for cervical ripening. Option C) Terbutaline is a tocolytic agent used to stop preterm labor, not for cervical ripening. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate medications for different stages of pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers involved in obstetric care. Knowledge of medications like Dinoprostone and their specific uses in promoting safe labor induction can help prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and the baby.