The nurse is caring for a 23-year-old patient who arrives at the clinic for a pregnancy test. The test confirms the patient is pregnant. The patient states, 'I do not need to stop smoking my electronic cigarette because it will not harm my baby.' Which is the best response by the nurse?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, should not be used during pregnancy due to risking nicotine toxicity. Rationale: 1. Nicotine from electronic cigarettes can cross the placenta, affecting fetal development. 2. Nicotine exposure during pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes like low birth weight and preterm birth. 3. The best practice during pregnancy is to avoid all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes. Summary: A: Incorrect. Electronic cigarettes can harm the fetus due to nicotine exposure. C: Incorrect. FDA does not consider electronic cigarettes safe during pregnancy. D: Incorrect. Harm from electronic cigarettes is not limited to the first trimester.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sudden swelling of the hands and feet. Gestational hypertension is characterized by sudden onset of high blood pressure after 20 weeks of pregnancy, leading to fluid retention and swelling. This is known as preeclampsia, a severe form of gestational hypertension. Swelling in the hands and feet is a key sign due to fluid imbalance. Severe headache and visual changes (choice A) are more indicative of preeclampsia complications. Excessive weight loss and fatigue (choice C) are not typical signs of gestational hypertension. Frequent urination and dehydration (choice D) are not directly related to gestational hypertension.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Leg cramps and lower back pain in pregnancy can be relieved by taking a warm bath and performing leg stretches. Warm water helps relax muscles, while stretching can alleviate muscle tension. This is safe and effective for pregnant patients. Choice B is incorrect because applying a heating pad may not be recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of overheating. Resting in bed may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause. Choice C is incorrect because increasing calcium intake and taking over-the-counter pain medications may not specifically target muscle cramps and back pain. It is essential to address the symptoms directly. Choice D is incorrect because encouraging light physical activity may be beneficial, but avoiding long periods of rest may not be necessary. Stretching and warm baths are more specific interventions for muscle cramps and back pain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: provide comfort measures. Comfort measures such as massage, positioning, and relaxation techniques help the laboring person cope with the pain and intensity of contractions. By providing comfort, the nurse can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a more positive labor experience. Choice B (assist with breathing exercises) can be helpful, but comfort measures are more essential for overall well-being during labor. Choice C (provide reassurance and comfort) is similar to the correct answer but lacks the specific action of providing comfort measures. Choice D (administer antibiotics) is irrelevant to the management of strong contractions and is not indicated unless there is a specific medical reason for antibiotics.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Spinal block. Spinal anesthesia provides rapid onset and reliable anesthesia for cesarean section, making it the preferred method in nonemergent cases. It is safe for both the mother and the baby, as it does not cross the placental barrier. Spinal anesthesia also allows for better pain control postoperatively compared to other methods. Choice B (Epidural block) may be a suitable option, but spinal anesthesia is preferred due to its faster onset and reliability. Choice C (General anesthesia) is not the preferred method in nonemergent cases as it carries more risks compared to regional anesthesia and may have adverse effects on the baby. Choice D (Intravenous sedation) is not appropriate for cesarean section as it does not provide adequate anesthesia for the procedure and may not be safe for the baby.