ATI RN
Common Complications in Early Pregnancy Questions
Question 1 of 5
A woman who began labor several hours ago is to be administered oxytocin. What is the goal of oxytocin therapy?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Use of this manufactured hormone induces labor or augments weak, irregular uterine contractions during labor. It is not used in the labor phase to prevent bleeding. It is not administered to decrease fetal hyperactivity. The administration of oxytocin should allow for adequate periods of relaxation between contractions.
Question 2 of 5
When administering magnesium sulfate, for what should the nurse assess the patient?
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.
Question 3 of 5
A woman who is 7 months pregnant is waking up at night with gastroesophageal reflux. Which of the following medications is most highly recommended?
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.
Question 4 of 5
A woman is at 42 weeks of gestation. Which of the following medications will be administered to promote cervical ripening?
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.
Question 5 of 5
A woman was administered misoprostol (Cytotec) in an effort to induce labor, but the care team is unsatisfied with the results. Consequently, oxytocin will be used. Prior to administering oxytocin, what must occur?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Four hours must elapse after the last dose of misoprostol. This is crucial because misoprostol can cause uterine hyperstimulation, which may lead to fetal distress. By waiting for four hours after the last dose, the risk of excessive uterine contractions is minimized before starting oxytocin to induce labor. Option B) The woman must have a type and cross-match performed is incorrect because this is not a necessary step before administering oxytocin for labor induction. Type and cross-match are typically done for blood transfusions to ensure compatibility, not for initiating oxytocin. Option C) The woman must receive a bolus of 500-mL normal saline is incorrect as well. While hydration is important during labor, it is not a prerequisite for switching from misoprostol to oxytocin. Option D) The woman must have her electrolytes measured is also incorrect in this context. Monitoring electrolytes is important in labor, especially with oxytocin use, but it is not a prerequisite before switching medications in this situation. Educationally, understanding the pharmacology and potential side effects of medications used in labor induction is crucial for healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective care for both the mother and the baby. Proper sequencing of interventions is essential to prevent complications and promote positive outcomes in obstetric care.