A woman in active labor presents with a prolonged latent phase, characterized by irregular and ineffective contractions. What maternal condition should the nurse assess for that may contribute to this abnormal labor pattern?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Maternal anxiety can contribute to a prolonged latent phase during labor. Stress and anxiety can trigger the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline, which can interfere with the production of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for initiating contractions. This can result in irregular and ineffective contractions, leading to a prolonged latent phase. It is important for the nurse to assess the woman's anxiety levels and provide reassurance and support to help facilitate the progression of labor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nursing intervention should prioritize providing education on proper incisional wound care techniques to promote optimal healing of the abdominal incision. This may include instructions on how to clean the incision site, signs and symptoms of infection, and when to seek medical attention. Proper wound care can help prevent complications such as infection and dehiscence, leading to better outcomes for the client. Administering prophylactic antibiotics, encouraging the use of abdominal binders, and instructing the client on activity restrictions are also important interventions, but educating the client on wound care techniques is crucial for their active participation in their recovery process.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Providing education on techniques to enhance milk production and supply should be prioritized to address the client's concerns about milk supply and meeting the baby's nutritional needs. By educating the client on proper breastfeeding techniques, frequent nursing sessions, skin-to-skin contact, and the importance of staying hydrated, the nurse can help promote successful breastfeeding and potentially increase milk production. Supplemental formula feedings are not the first line of intervention, as breastfeeding should be encouraged, especially for a preterm infant who may benefit significantly from breast milk. Encouraging the client to avoid breastfeeding until the infant reaches full term is not appropriate, as breastfeeding can still be beneficial for a preterm infant. Referring the client to a dietitian for specialized nutritional support may be beneficial, but addressing milk supply concerns through education should be prioritized initially to support breastfeeding success.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most appropriate nursing action in this scenario is to notify the healthcare provider immediately. The client's presentation of calf pain, swelling, and warmth could be indicative of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a serious condition that requires prompt evaluation and intervention by the healthcare provider. DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein, often in the leg, and if left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism. Therefore, timely communication with the healthcare provider is critical to ensure that the client receives the appropriate diagnostic testing and treatment to address the potential DVT. Applying warm compresses, encouraging ambulation, or administering NSAIDs would not be the first-line interventions for a suspected DVT and may even worsen the condition.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Administering intravenous fluids as ordered is the most appropriate nursing action for a postpartum client exhibiting signs of severe dehydration. Severe dehydration, as indicated by dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, and oliguria, requires immediate intervention to restore fluid balance effectively. Intravenous fluids deliver fluids directly into the bloodstream, ensuring rapid rehydration and addressing the critical situation promptly. Offering oral rehydration solutions may not be sufficient to address severe dehydration, and providing education on fluid intake can be important for prevention but is not the immediate priority in this scenario. Notifying the healthcare provider is essential, but initiating intravenous fluids promptly is crucial in managing severe dehydration.