The nurse is assessing a client at 20 weeks' gestation with suspected anemia. What lab finding supports this diagnosis?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of maternal health during pregnancy, anemia is a common concern due to the increased demands on the mother's body for adequate blood supply to support both her and the developing fetus. The correct answer, option A, states a hemoglobin level of 10 g/dL, which supports the diagnosis of anemia. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. During pregnancy, a hemoglobin level below 11 g/dL is considered indicative of anemia due to the expansion of plasma volume, which can dilute the concentration of red blood cells. Therefore, a hemoglobin level of 10 g/dL at 20 weeks' gestation raises suspicion for anemia. Analyzing the incorrect options: B) Platelet count of 150,000 mm3: Platelets are involved in blood clotting, not in diagnosing anemia. C) Hematocrit of 40%: While hematocrit measures the proportion of red blood cells in the blood, a specific hemoglobin level is more indicative of anemia. D) White blood cell count of 8,000 mm3: White blood cells are part of the immune system and are not directly related to diagnosing anemia. Educationally, understanding the importance of interpreting lab values in the context of pregnancy helps nurses provide optimal care to both the mother and the fetus. Recognizing the significance of hemoglobin levels in assessing for anemia during pregnancy is crucial for timely intervention and management to promote positive maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of maternal fetal health, educating clients about kick counts is crucial for monitoring fetal well-being. The correct answer is A) Fewer than 10 movements in 2 hours because it aligns with the standard recommendation of feeling at least 10 movements within a 2-hour period. This frequency indicates adequate fetal activity and suggests a healthy baby. Contacting the healthcare provider in this scenario allows for prompt evaluation and intervention if needed. Option B) Fewer than 5 movements in 1 hour sets a threshold that is too low and may lead to unnecessary anxiety and frequent calls to the healthcare provider. It does not align with the standard kick count recommendations. Option C) No movements after drinking juice is not a reliable indicator of fetal well-being. Fetal movements can vary based on various factors, and the response to ingesting juice may not always be immediate or consistent. Option D) No movements for 12 hours is too long to wait before seeking medical attention. Delaying contact with the healthcare provider in such a situation could pose risks to the fetus if there is an issue with decreased fetal movement. Educationally, understanding the significance of kick counts empowers pregnant individuals to actively participate in monitoring their baby's health. By providing accurate information on when to contact the healthcare provider, nurses can help ensure timely interventions and promote positive maternal and newborn outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and maternal-newborn care, it is crucial for nurses to understand the effects of medications like oxytocin on both the mother and the fetus during labor induction. The correct answer, B) Fetal heart rate of 100 beats/minute, requires the nurse to stop the infusion because a fetal heart rate of 100 beats/minute is considered bradycardia, which is a concerning sign indicating fetal distress. This situation necessitates immediate intervention to ensure the safety of the fetus. Option A) Contractions every 2 minutes may indicate hyperstimulation of the uterus, which can lead to fetal distress but does not explicitly mandate stopping the infusion. Option C) Maternal blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg is within the normal range and does not require stopping the oxytocin infusion. Option D) Client reports mild back pain is a common side effect of labor and not a reason to discontinue the oxytocin infusion. Educationally, this scenario highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring and prompt recognition of adverse effects during oxytocin administration for labor induction. Nurses should prioritize fetal well-being by closely assessing fetal heart rate patterns and being prepared to intervene promptly if signs of distress arise.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Birth control pills primarily work by preventing ovulation, thereby inhibiting the release of eggs for fertilization. Choice A is incorrect because birth control pills do not directly block sperm; they prevent ovulation. Choice C is partially correct but is not the main mechanism, as the primary function is to prevent ovulation. Choice D is incorrect because birth control pills do not alter the size of reproductive organs.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of medical eligibility for contraceptive use, an MEC (Medical Eligibility Criteria) score of 1 indicates that there are no restrictions for using the particular contraceptive method. A score of 1 suggests that the advantages of using the contraceptive method outweigh any potential risks, making it a safe and recommended choice for the patient. Therefore, a patient with an MEC score of 1 can use the contraceptive method without any concerns regarding health risks or restrictions.