ATI RN
External Maternal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
A woman whose prenatal weight was 105 lb weighs 109 lb at her 12-week visit. Which of the following comments by the nurse is appropriate at this time?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Your weight gain is exactly what we would expect it to be at this time." Explanation: At 12 weeks of pregnancy, a woman is expected to have gained around 1-4 pounds. In this case, the woman has gained 4 pounds, which falls within the expected range. This weight gain is considered appropriate as it reflects healthy fetal growth and maternal weight gain. Option A is incorrect because weight gain can vary among individuals, and there is not a strict rule of 1 lb per week for every woman. Option B is incorrect because weight gain during the first trimester can vary, and suggesting a reduction in dessert consumption is not appropriate without further assessment. Option C is incorrect because assuming the woman is not getting adequate nutrients solely based on her starting weight is not evidence-based. Educational Context: It is essential for healthcare providers, especially nurses, to understand the normal weight gain patterns during pregnancy to provide appropriate guidance and support to pregnant women. Monitoring weight gain is crucial for assessing maternal and fetal well-being. Educating women about healthy weight gain and nutritional needs during pregnancy is vital to promote optimal outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following findings in an 8-week gestation client, G2 P1001, should the nurse highlight for the nurse midwife? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) Body mass index of 17 kg/m². This finding is crucial to highlight to the nurse midwife because a low body mass index (BMI) in pregnancy, especially at 8 weeks of gestation, can indicate potential issues with maternal nutrition and overall health. Adequate maternal nutrition is essential for the health and development of the fetus. A low BMI can increase the risk of complications such as intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. Option B) Rubella titer of 1:8 is not typically a concern at 8 weeks of gestation unless the titer is significantly higher, indicating a lack of immunity to rubella, which could pose a risk to the fetus. Option C) Blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg is within the normal range for pregnancy and does not raise immediate concerns. Option D) Hematocrit of 30% is also within the acceptable range for pregnancy and does not require immediate attention. Educationally, it is important for nurses to understand the significance of various assessments in maternal monitoring during pregnancy. Highlighting the importance of BMI in pregnancy can help nurses recognize the impact of maternal nutrition on fetal development and overall pregnancy outcomes. This knowledge is crucial for providing effective prenatal care and promoting positive maternal and fetal health.
Question 3 of 5
A client is 15 weeks pregnant. She calls the obstetric office to request a medication for a headache. The nurse answers the telephone. Which of the following is the nurse’s best response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) You can take acetaminophen because it is a category 'B' medicine. Acetaminophen is considered safe for use during pregnancy when used as directed. It is classified as a category B medication, indicating no risk to the fetus in controlled studies. This response is best as it provides a safe and appropriate option for the client's headache. Option A is incorrect as it instills unnecessary fear and does not provide a specific recommendation. Option B is incorrect as not all over-the-counter medications are safe during pregnancy, and some may pose risks to the developing fetus. Option C is incorrect as category X medications are contraindicated during pregnancy due to their known risks to the fetus. In an educational context, it is crucial for healthcare providers to have a sound understanding of medication safety during pregnancy to provide accurate guidance to pregnant clients. This scenario highlights the importance of knowing pregnancy categories and recommending safe options for common complaints like headaches. Proper education ensures the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus.
Question 4 of 5
A 38-week gestation client, Bishop score 1, is advised by her nurse midwife to take evening primrose daily. The office nurse advises the client to report which of the following side effects that has been attributed to the oil?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Diarrhea. Evening primrose oil is often recommended to help ripen the cervix due to its prostaglandin content, which can stimulate uterine contractions. Diarrhea is a common side effect of prostaglandins, making it important for the client to report this to her healthcare provider. Option B) Pedal edema is unlikely to be caused by evening primrose oil and is not a typical side effect associated with its use in pregnancy. Option C) Blurred vision and D) Tinnitus are also not commonly reported side effects of evening primrose oil. From an educational perspective, it is crucial for healthcare providers, especially nurse midwives, to understand the potential side effects of commonly recommended interventions during pregnancy. This knowledge helps in providing appropriate guidance to pregnant women and ensures their safety and well-being. By explaining the rationale behind the correct answer and debunking the incorrect options, students and practitioners can enhance their pharmacological knowledge and clinical decision-making skills in maternal monitoring.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is working in the prenatal clinic. Which of the following findings seen in third-trimester pregnant women would the nurse consider to be within normal limits?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the third trimester of pregnancy, leg cramps are a common occurrence due to increased pressure on blood vessels and nerves, as well as changes in circulation. Therefore, experiencing leg cramps is considered normal during this stage of pregnancy. Varicose veins and hemorrhoids are also common in pregnancy due to increased blood volume and pressure on the veins, but they are not typically considered within normal limits as they can cause discomfort and require management. Fainting spells, on the other hand, can indicate more serious issues such as dehydration, low blood sugar, or low blood pressure, which should be investigated and managed promptly. In an educational context, understanding the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy is crucial for healthcare providers to provide optimal care for pregnant women. Recognizing what is considered normal versus abnormal can help in early identification of potential complications and appropriate interventions. It is essential for nurses working in prenatal care settings to be knowledgeable about these common symptoms and their implications to provide comprehensive care to pregnant individuals.