A pregnant woman presents with sudden onset of severe abdominal pain and dark red vaginal bleeding at 28 weeks gestation. On examination, the uterus is tender, and the fundus feels firm. Which of the following conditions is the most likely cause of these symptoms?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The most likely cause of the sudden onset of severe abdominal pain and dark red vaginal bleeding with a tender, firm uterus at 28 weeks gestation is abruptio placentae. Abruptio placentae, also known as placental abruption, is the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery. This condition can be life-threatening to both the mother and the fetus, as it can lead to severe bleeding and compromise the oxygen and nutrients supply to the fetus. The presentation typically includes severe abdominal pain, dark red or maroon vaginal bleeding, uterine tenderness, and a firm uterus due to the blood accumulation behind the placenta. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent adverse maternal and fetal outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When documenting pitting edema in a patient's notes, it is important to include details such as the degree of edema (A), duration of indentation (B), and depth of edema (D) as these parameters are relevant in assessing the severity of the condition and monitoring changes over time. However, mentioning the degree of temperature (C) is not directly related to assessing pitting edema. Temperature is typically assessed as part of a general physical assessment for signs of infection or inflammation and is not specifically needed when documenting pitting edema.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: #NAME?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct nursing intervention to prioritize in this situation is providing education on techniques to improve latch and milk transfer. Cesarean section deliveries can sometimes pose challenges for breastfeeding initiation, but with proper education and support, many women can successfully breastfeed following a C-section. By teaching the client techniques to improve latch and milk transfer, the nurse can help address the client's concerns about breastfeeding difficulties and worries about insufficient milk supply. This proactive approach empowers the client to overcome breastfeeding challenges and increase their confidence in their ability to breastfeed successfully. Referring the client to a lactation consultant for specialized support may also be beneficial, but providing initial education on latch and milk transfer is crucial in this early postpartum period. Recommending formula feedings or discouraging breastfeeding may not be appropriate interventions, as they can affect the establishment of breastfeeding and undermine the client's breastfeeding goals.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are commonly prescribed for conditions involving excessive stomach acid production, such as peptic ulcer disease. One of the potential adverse effects of PPIs, such as omeprazole or pantoprazole, is the risk of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the bloodstream. Prolonged use of PPIs can inhibit the absorption of potassium in the intestines, leading to a decrease in potassium levels in the body. Hypokalemia can present with symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, and in severe cases, it can result in life-threatening complications like cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of hypokalemia while on PPI therapy, especially if the patient is at risk for developing electrolyte imbalances.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Nurse Mae should utilize performance evaluations to ensure that the staff adheres to their job responsibilities. Performance evaluations are structured assessments that provide a holistic view of an employee's performance against established standards and job responsibilities. By conducting regular performance evaluations, Nurse Mae can objectively measure staff performance, identify areas of strengths and weaknesses, provide feedback for improvement, and set goals for professional development. This tool is essential for monitoring and managing staff performance effectively in a healthcare setting.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Option C, summarizing key points and asking clarifying questions as needed, demonstrates effective communication during the handover process. This action ensures that the nurse fully understands the information being provided and helps to prevent misunderstandings or missing critical details. By summarizing key points, the nurse confirms their understanding and can ask for clarification on any areas that are unclear. Effective communication during handovers is essential for maintaining patient safety and continuity of care.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: While all of the nursing measures listed are important considerations when managing a patient receiving oxytocin drip, the nurse would least consider informing the patient about potential complications. The reason for this is that it is the responsibility of the healthcare provider (such as the physician or advanced practice nurse) to inform the patient about potential complications of a medication or treatment. Nurses are instrumental in providing education and support to patients, but in the case of informing patients about potential complications, this task typically falls under the purview of the prescribing provider. The primary focus of the nurse in this situation would be to assess, administer, monitor, and educate the patient as appropriate, ensuring safe and effective care delivery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed to improve respiratory mechanics is the most appropriate intervention for managing paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea in a patient with end-stage heart failure. By keeping the head of the bed elevated, gravity helps reduce the pooling of fluid in the lungs, making it easier for the patient to breathe and reducing dyspnea. This strategy can help improve oxygenation and decrease the sensation of breathlessness, providing relief for the patient. Administering diuretic medications (Option A) can also be beneficial to reduce fluid overload, although positioning remains a key intervention. Encouraging the patient to sleep in a reclined position (Option C) can help alleviate symptoms, but specifically elevating the head of the bed is a more targeted approach. Referring the patient to a sleep specialist (Option D) may not be necessary at this time, as the primary concern is managing the acute symptom of paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea