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: In pharmacology, the L/S ratio (lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio) is a crucial indicator of fetal lung maturity. An L/S ratio of 2:1 is generally considered normal, indicating mature fetal lungs. Option B, a 24-year-old gravida 1, para 0, with diabetes, would potentially have an abnormal L/S ratio of 2:1 because diabetes can delay fetal lung maturity, leading to a higher ratio than expected. Option A, a 38-year-old gravida 2, para 1, at 38 weeks' gestation, is less likely to have an abnormal L/S ratio as advanced maternal age alone is not a significant factor in fetal lung maturity. Option C, a 44-year-old gravida 6, para 5, at term, is also less likely to have an abnormal ratio as multiparity does not necessarily impact fetal lung maturity. Option D, an 18-year-old gravida 1, para 0, in early labor at term, is less likely to have an abnormal ratio as age and parity are not typically associated with delayed fetal lung maturity. Understanding these factors is essential for healthcare providers involved in maternal monitoring during labor to interpret and respond to variations in the L/S ratio accurately, ensuring the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
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 pharmacology, understanding maternal monitoring during labor is crucial for providing optimal care to pregnant clients. In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Chorionic gonadotropin. Chorionic gonadotropin, specifically human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is a hormone produced by the placenta after implantation occurs. Elevated levels of hCG in a woman's blood or urine are a reliable indicator of pregnancy, making it a key hormone to test for in early pregnancy confirmation. Option B) Oxytocin is a hormone responsible for uterine contractions during labor and milk ejection during breastfeeding, but its elevation alone does not confirm pregnancy. Option C) Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production in the mammary glands, primarily postpartum. Elevated prolactin levels are not specific to pregnancy confirmation. Option D) Luteinizing hormone (LH) is involved in the menstrual cycle and ovulation but does not reliably indicate pregnancy status. In an educational context, understanding the hormonal changes in pregnancy is essential for healthcare providers to accurately assess and monitor maternal health. By knowing which hormones are specific to pregnancy confirmation, healthcare professionals can effectively counsel and provide appropriate care to pregnant clients. This knowledge aids in early detection of pregnancy, prenatal care initiation, and overall management of maternal health during the labor and delivery process.
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 need for referral to a genetic counselor because cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that can be inherited. Genetic counseling would be essential for the client to understand the genetic implications, risks, and options for future pregnancies. Option A) My first child has cerebral palsy does not necessarily indicate a need for genetic counseling as cerebral palsy is not typically a genetic condition but rather a result of brain injury or abnormal brain development. Option B) My first child has hypertension is a common medical condition that is not typically genetic and would not warrant genetic counseling. Option C) My first child has asthma is also not typically a genetic condition and does not require genetic counseling. In an educational context, understanding when to refer a client to a genetic counselor is crucial for nurses providing prenatal care. Genetic counselors can provide valuable information and support to clients with genetic concerns, helping them make informed decisions about family planning and genetic testing. By recognizing red flags like a child with a known genetic disorder, nurses can ensure their clients receive comprehensive care and appropriate referrals.
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: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Leg cramping. During the second trimester of pregnancy, leg cramping is a common symptom due to factors such as increased weight and pressure on the legs, changes in circulation, and mineral imbalances. Leg cramping can be especially prevalent in multigravid clients who have been pregnant before, as their body may react differently compared to first-time pregnancies. 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. Option B) Dyspnea (shortness of breath) is often experienced in the later stages of pregnancy as the growing uterus puts pressure on the diaphragm and lungs. While dyspnea can occur, it is not typically a prominent symptom at 22 weeks. Option C) Urinary frequency is common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes and later in pregnancy due to the growing uterus pressing on the bladder. At 22 weeks, urinary frequency may have improved compared to the first trimester but can vary among individuals. Educationally, understanding the timing and common symptoms of pregnancy is crucial for nurses caring for pregnant clients. By recognizing the expected symptoms at different stages of pregnancy, nurses can provide appropriate education, support, and interventions to promote the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
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 that indicate potential complications. Option A is the correct answer as it reflects a significant increase in blood pressure from the prepregnancy baseline to the third trimester, indicating gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, which are critical conditions requiring medical intervention. Option B is incorrect as a slight increase in respiratory rate can be a normal physiological adaptation to pregnancy due to increased oxygen demand, and it may not necessarily indicate a problem. Option C is incorrect because a modest increase in heart rate can also be normal during pregnancy as the body adapts to the increased demands of the growing fetus and placenta. Option D is incorrect as a slight elevation in temperature is not uncommon in pregnant women and may not be a cause for immediate concern unless it is accompanied by other symptoms of infection. Educationally, understanding the normal physiological changes during pregnancy and being able to identify abnormal vital sign trends are crucial for nurses caring for pregnant women. Highlighting the correct vital sign changes can help in early identification and management of complications, ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby.