ATI RN
Maternal Newborn Nursing Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is assessing a client diagnosed with placenta previa. Which findings should the nurse expect to note?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the case of placenta previa, the correct finding the nurse should expect to note is bright red vaginal bleeding (Option C). This is because placenta previa involves the abnormal implantation of the placenta over or near the cervical os, which can lead to bleeding as the cervix begins to dilate in preparation for labor. This bleeding is typically painless and can be sudden and profuse. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons: A) Uterine rigidity: Uterine rigidity is not typically associated with placenta previa. It is more commonly seen in conditions like placental abruption. B) Severe abdominal pain: Severe abdominal pain is not a typical finding in placenta previa. It is more commonly associated with conditions like placental abruption or uterine rupture. D) Soft, relaxed, nontender uterus: In placenta previa, the uterus is typically soft, relaxed, and nontender. Uterine rigidity or tenderness would be more indicative of other complications. Educational context: Understanding the signs and symptoms of placenta previa is crucial for nurses caring for pregnant women. Recognizing these symptoms promptly can lead to early intervention and management, which is vital in ensuring the best possible outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Nurses need to be able to differentiate between placenta previa and other obstetric emergencies to provide appropriate care.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is monitoring a pregnant client with suspected gestational hypertension. What finding confirms the diagnosis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of maternal newborn nursing and pharmacology, the correct answer to the question is option B: Blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg on two occasions. This finding confirms the diagnosis of gestational hypertension. Gestational hypertension is characterized by elevated blood pressure readings during pregnancy. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher on two separate occasions after 20 weeks of gestation is indicative of gestational hypertension. Option A, proteinuria, is a symptom of preeclampsia, not gestational hypertension. While proteinuria can be present in some cases of gestational hypertension, it is not the defining diagnostic criterion for this condition. Option C, edema of the hands and feet, is a common symptom in pregnancy but is not specific to gestational hypertension. Edema alone is not sufficient to confirm the diagnosis of gestational hypertension. Option D, elevated blood glucose levels, is more indicative of gestational diabetes rather than gestational hypertension. Gestational diabetes is a separate condition characterized by high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It is essential for nurses caring for pregnant clients to understand the diagnostic criteria for gestational hypertension to provide timely and appropriate care. Monitoring blood pressure levels regularly, especially after 20 weeks of gestation, is crucial in identifying and managing gestational hypertension to prevent adverse outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client in labor with meconium-stained amniotic fluid. What is the priority action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the scenario of a client in labor with meconium-stained amniotic fluid, the priority action is to prepare for potential neonatal resuscitation (Option C). Meconium-stained amniotic fluid indicates potential fetal distress due to the presence of meconium, which can lead to respiratory complications if aspirated by the newborn during delivery. Therefore, being prepared for immediate neonatal resuscitation is crucial to address any respiratory distress or complications that may arise in the newborn. Administering oxygen to the mother (Option A) may be beneficial, but the priority is the well-being of the newborn in this situation. Notifying the healthcare provider (Option B) is important, but immediate action to address potential neonatal complications takes precedence. Increasing IV fluid rate (Option D) is not the priority when dealing with meconium-stained amniotic fluid; the focus should be on the newborn's respiratory status and immediate interventions if needed. In an educational context, understanding the implications of meconium-stained amniotic fluid on the newborn's health and the need for prompt neonatal resuscitation can help nurses provide effective and timely care in labor and delivery settings. Prioritizing actions based on the potential risks to the newborn's health is essential in maternal newborn nursing practice.
Question 4 of 5
A pregnant client reports frequent urination and lower abdominal pressure at 36 weeks. What should the nurse explain?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) This is common due to fetal descent. Rationale: - Lower abdominal pressure and frequent urination at 36 weeks are common symptoms due to the descent of the fetal head into the pelvis, known as engagement or lightening. This physiological process occurs as the baby prepares for birth. - Preterm labor (Option A) typically presents with regular contractions, lower back pain, and sometimes vaginal bleeding. It is crucial to differentiate between normal signs of pregnancy progression and potential signs of preterm labor to ensure appropriate interventions and monitoring. - Urinary tract infections (Option B) may present with symptoms like burning sensation during urination, cloudy urine, and strong-smelling urine. While pregnant women are more susceptible to UTIs, the symptoms described in the question are more related to fetal descent. - Braxton Hicks contractions (Option D) are irregular, painless contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy. While they may cause some discomfort, they are not typically associated with lower abdominal pressure and frequent urination at 36 weeks. Educational context: Understanding the physiological changes that occur during late pregnancy is crucial for maternal newborn nurses to provide accurate information, support, and care to pregnant clients. Educating clients about common signs and symptoms of pregnancy progression versus potential complications like preterm labor or infections empowers them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is educating a client about managing heartburn during pregnancy. What is the best advice?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and maternal newborn nursing, proper management of heartburn during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the developing fetus. The best advice to give to a client experiencing heartburn during pregnancy is to eat small, frequent meals (Option B). This recommendation helps prevent overeating, which can exacerbate heartburn symptoms by putting pressure on the stomach. By eating smaller meals more frequently, the stomach is not overly distended, reducing the likelihood of reflux and heartburn. Option A, lying down immediately after eating, is incorrect because it can worsen heartburn symptoms due to the horizontal position allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. Option C, drinking a glass of water with meals, may provide some temporary relief by diluting stomach acid, but it does not address the underlying issue of overeating or stomach distension. Option D, consuming spicy foods to aid digestion, is incorrect as spicy foods can actually trigger or worsen heartburn symptoms in many individuals. Educationally, it is important to emphasize to pregnant clients the significance of dietary modifications in managing common discomforts like heartburn. Teaching about appropriate meal sizes and frequency can empower clients to take control of their symptoms in a safe and effective manner, promoting a healthier pregnancy experience for both mother and baby.