ATI RN
Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A pregnant woman who is 28 weeks gestation reports that she feels dizzy and faint when she stands up. What should the nurse instruct the patient to do?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, instructing the pregnant woman to get up slowly and avoid standing for long periods. This is because during pregnancy, blood pressure can drop when standing up quickly, leading to dizziness and fainting. Getting up slowly allows the body to adjust gradually, preventing a sudden drop in blood pressure. Standing for long periods can worsen these symptoms, so it is important to avoid prolonged standing. A: Lying down flat on the back immediately can worsen symptoms in this case by reducing blood flow to the brain. B: Standing up quickly can exacerbate dizziness and fainting by causing a sudden drop in blood pressure. C: Drinking a large amount of water may not address the underlying issue of postural hypotension and could potentially worsen symptoms by increasing blood volume without addressing the drop in blood pressure.
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient at 28 weeks gestation expresses concern about her baby's movements. Which of the following should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Count fetal movements and report a decrease of more than 10 movements per day. This recommendation is evidence-based and aligns with guidelines for monitoring fetal well-being. Counting fetal movements helps assess fetal health, and a decrease in movements could indicate potential issues like fetal distress. Reporting a decrease of more than 10 movements per day ensures timely intervention if needed. Choice B is incorrect because waiting until after 32 weeks could delay necessary intervention if there are concerns about fetal movements. Choice C is incorrect as it dismisses the importance of monitoring fetal movements altogether. Choice D is incorrect as there is no requirement to always lie down or restrict monitoring to only after meals, which could lead to missed opportunities for detecting potential problems.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is providing prenatal education to a patient who is 22 weeks gestation. Which of the following topics should be emphasized at this stage of pregnancy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Signs and symptoms of preterm labor. At 22 weeks gestation, it is crucial to educate the patient about potential signs of preterm labor to help prevent premature birth and ensure the well-being of the baby. Symptoms such as regular contractions, abdominal cramping, backache, and vaginal bleeding should be discussed. This topic is time-sensitive and requires immediate action if observed. Summary of other choices: B: Signs of gestational diabetes - While important, monitoring for gestational diabetes typically occurs later in pregnancy, usually around 24-28 weeks. C: Breastfeeding education - Important, but not as time-sensitive as preterm labor education. D: Postpartum care - Relevant but more appropriate for later stages of pregnancy or after birth, not specifically at 22 weeks gestation.
Question 4 of 5
A pregnant woman who is 24 weeks gestation is experiencing excessive vomiting and dehydration. Which of the following interventions should the nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, starting intravenous fluids to restore hydration and electrolytes. This is the priority intervention because dehydration during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby. By administering IV fluids, the nurse can quickly rehydrate the mother and replenish electrolytes to ensure the well-being of both. Choice A (Administer an antiemetic) may help control vomiting, but addressing dehydration is the primary concern. Choice B (Encourage rest) is important, but without addressing hydration first, rest alone will not resolve the issue. Choice D (Recommend smaller meals) may be helpful in managing nausea, but it does not address the immediate need for hydration and electrolyte balance.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a pregnant patient at 18 weeks gestation who complains of feeling lightheaded when standing. What should the nurse advise the patient to do?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because changing positions slowly helps prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can cause lightheadedness. Sitting down immediately if feeling faint promotes safety and prevents falls. Taking deep breaths and lying flat on the back (choice A) can exacerbate lightheadedness by reducing blood flow to the brain. Increasing fluid intake and avoiding prolonged standing (choice B) may help with other issues but may not directly address the lightheadedness. Taking frequent rests while sitting upright (choice C) does not address the issue of changing positions slowly to prevent lightheadedness.