ATI RN
Common Complications in Early Pregnancy Questions
Question 1 of 5
A woman has been unable to conceive for many months and will soon begin treatment with clomiphene (Clomid). What health education should the nurse provide to this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ovulation occurs 5 to 10 days after the course of clomiphene treatment has been completed. Prior to beginning the drug regimen, the nurse instructs the woman about taking her basal temperature 5 to 10 days following administration. An incremental rise in temperature is an indication of ovulation. There is no specific contraindication against alcohol, and neurological adverse effects are not expected.
Question 2 of 5
Which of these statements best describes the action of the hormone progesterone during pregnancy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Progesterone is a crucial hormone during pregnancy, and option D, which states that progesterone maintains the endometrium around the fetus, is the correct statement. Progesterone plays a key role in supporting the early stages of pregnancy by maintaining the thickened endometrial lining, which provides a nourishing environment for the developing fetus. Option A is incorrect because progesterone does not produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); rather, hCG is produced by the placenta. Option B is also incorrect as duct formation in the breast is primarily stimulated by estrogen, not progesterone. Option C is inaccurate as progesterone actually helps to maintain the endometrial wall, rather than promoting its sloughing. In an educational context, understanding the functions of hormones like progesterone in early pregnancy is essential for healthcare providers, nurses, and students specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. This knowledge is crucial for providing optimal care to pregnant individuals and recognizing and managing complications that may arise during this critical period.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse auscultates a functional systolic murmur, grade II/IV, on a woman in week 30 of her pregnancy. The remainder of her physical assessment is within normal limits. The nurse would:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C. During pregnancy, there is a physiological increase in blood volume to support the growing fetus and maternal needs. This increased volume can lead to the development of functional systolic murmurs, which are typically benign and do not indicate underlying heart abnormalities. Therefore, it is crucial for the nurse to recognize that this finding is a normal adaptation to pregnancy and does not require further investigation or intervention. Option A is incorrect because referring the woman for additional consultation based solely on the presence of a functional systolic murmur in pregnancy would be unnecessary and could cause undue anxiety for the patient. Option B is incorrect as asking the woman to run briefly in place to assess for an increase in murmur intensity is not necessary. Functional systolic murmurs in pregnancy are typically consistent in intensity and do not change significantly with activity. Option D is incorrect as there is no indication to restrict the woman's activities or schedule a re-evaluation in 1 week based on the presence of a functional systolic murmur in isolation. Educationally, understanding the normal physiological changes that occur during pregnancy is essential for healthcare providers to differentiate between benign adaptations and potential complications. This knowledge helps prevent unnecessary interventions and ensures appropriate care for pregnant women.
Question 4 of 5
Which finding is considered normal and expected when the nurse is performing a physical examination on a pregnant woman?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a palpable, full thyroid is a normal finding during pregnancy. Significant diffuse enlargement of the thyroid is abnormal and indicates various conditions. Pale mucous membranes may suggest anemia, and edema in one lower leg with pain could indicate deep vein thrombosis.
Question 5 of 5
When the nurse is assessing the deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) on a woman who is 32 weeks pregnant, which of these would be considered a normal finding on a 0 to 4+ scale?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In early pregnancy, changes in the body can affect deep tendon reflexes (DTRs). The correct answer is B) 2+. A normal DTR response in pregnancy is typically 2+ on a 0 to 4+ scale. This indicates a normal response without hyperactivity or diminished reflexes. Option A) Absent DTRs would be considered abnormal and could indicate issues such as nerve damage or disease. Option C) 4+ indicates hyperactive reflexes, which are not normal and could be a sign of certain neurological conditions. Option D) brisk reflexes and the presence of clonus suggest hyperreflexia, which is also abnormal in pregnancy. Educationally, understanding the normal changes in pregnancy, including DTR assessments, is crucial for nurses caring for pregnant women. Knowing what is normal helps in identifying potential complications early and providing appropriate care. Regular monitoring and assessment of DTRs can aid in detecting any abnormalities promptly, ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.