ATI RN
Maternal Monitoring During Labor Questions
Question 1 of 5
For which patient would an L/S ratio of 2:1 potentially be considered abnormal?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) A 24-year-old gravida 1, para 0, who has diabetes. In the context of maternal monitoring during labor, the L/S (lecithin/sphingomyelin) ratio is used to assess fetal lung maturity. A ratio of 2:1 is considered abnormal because it indicates insufficient lung maturity, which can increase the risk of respiratory distress syndrome in the newborn. Option A is less likely to be abnormal as the patient is at term, which increases the likelihood of fetal lung maturity. Option C is also less likely to be abnormal as the patient is at term and has a history of multiple pregnancies, which may indicate fetal lung maturity. Option D is less likely as the patient is in early labor at term, which allows time for fetal lung maturity to progress. Understanding the implications of abnormal L/S ratios is crucial in obstetric pharmacology to guide clinical decision-making regarding the timing and management of labor to optimize neonatal outcomes. It is essential for healthcare providers to interpret these results accurately to provide appropriate care for both the mother and the newborn.
Question 2 of 5
A client enters the prenatal clinic. She states that she believes she is pregnant. Which of the following hormone elevations will indicate a high probability that the client is pregnant?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and maternal monitoring during labor, understanding the role of hormones in pregnancy is crucial. The correct answer is A) Chorionic gonadotropin, as its elevation is a hallmark sign of pregnancy. This hormone is produced by the placenta shortly after implantation and is responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum, which in turn produces progesterone to sustain the early pregnancy. Option B) Oxytocin is a hormone involved in uterine contractions during labor and milk ejection during breastfeeding, but its elevation alone does not confirm pregnancy. Option C) Prolactin is primarily associated with milk production and breastfeeding, not the early detection of pregnancy. Option D) Luteinizing hormone plays a role in the menstrual cycle by triggering ovulation, but its elevation alone does not indicate pregnancy. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy for accurate maternal monitoring. By recognizing the significance of chorionic gonadotropin in early pregnancy detection, healthcare providers can offer timely prenatal care and support to pregnant individuals.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse takes the history of a client, G2 P1001, at her first prenatal visit. Which of the following statements would indicate that the client should be referred to a genetic counselor?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) My first child has cystic fibrosis. This statement indicates a potential genetic component that may increase the risk of cystic fibrosis in subsequent children. Referring the client to a genetic counselor is important to assess the risk, provide genetic counseling, and discuss possible screening options. Option A) My first child has cerebral palsy, option B) My first child has hypertension, and option C) My first child has asthma do not directly indicate a need for genetic counseling. Cerebral palsy, hypertension, and asthma are not typically genetic conditions that would necessitate a referral to a genetic counselor. In an educational context, understanding when to refer a client to a genetic counselor is crucial for nurses providing prenatal care. Genetic counselors play a key role in assessing genetic risks, offering support, and facilitating informed decision-making for families. Identifying red flags in a family history, such as a child with cystic fibrosis, highlights the importance of genetic counseling to support the health and well-being of the mother and her potential future children.
Question 4 of 5
A multigravid client is 22 weeks pregnant. Which of the following symptoms would the nurse expect the client to exhibit?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D) Leg cramping. Leg cramping is a common symptom during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to factors like increased weight, pressure on blood vessels, and hormonal changes. This discomfort is often experienced by multigravid clients as their uterine ligaments and muscles have been stretched with previous pregnancies, leading to increased susceptibility to cramping. Option A) Nausea is more commonly associated with early pregnancy (first trimester) due to hormonal changes and is less likely to be a prominent symptom at 22 weeks gestation in a multigravid client. Option B) Dyspnea (shortness of breath) is a common symptom in late pregnancy when the uterus enlarges and presses on the diaphragm, but it is not typically a significant concern at 22 weeks unless there are other underlying health issues. Option C) Urinary frequency is common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes and pressure on the bladder as the uterus grows, but it tends to improve in the second trimester as the uterus rises into the abdomen. Educational Context: Understanding the common symptoms experienced by pregnant clients at different stages is crucial for nurses providing care during pregnancy. Recognizing normal discomforts and differentiating them from potential complications is essential for effective maternal monitoring. Leg cramping, in this case, is a common discomfort that can be managed through strategies like hydration, gentle stretching, and proper positioning, highlighting the importance of holistic care for pregnant individuals.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following vital sign changes should the nurse highlight for a pregnant woman’s obstetrician?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of maternal monitoring during labor, the nurse should highlight the vital sign changes of the pregnant woman to the obstetrician to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus. Option A is the correct choice as it indicates a significant increase in blood pressure from the prepregnancy state to the third trimester, which could be indicative of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, conditions that require immediate medical attention. Option B, respiratory rate changes, are not typically a primary concern in maternal monitoring unless there are specific respiratory issues present. Option C, heart rate changes, can be expected to increase slightly during pregnancy due to the physiological changes but are not as critical as blood pressure changes. Option D, temperature changes, are not typically a key indicator of complications during labor unless there are signs of infection. Educationally, understanding the significance of vital sign changes during pregnancy is crucial for nurses to detect and address potential complications promptly. By emphasizing the importance of continuous monitoring and timely reporting of vital sign changes, nurses can contribute to ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby during labor and delivery.