The nurse is caring for a patient who is 32 weeks pregnant and is concerned about gestational diabetes. Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "You can control gestational diabetes with regular exercise and a healthy diet." This is the most appropriate statement because managing gestational diabetes through lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and a healthy diet is a key component of treatment. By controlling blood sugar levels through these methods, complications for both the mother and baby can be reduced. Choice A is incorrect because gestational diabetes may not always resolve after delivery and can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Choice B is incorrect as it confuses the risk of the baby developing diabetes with the mother's condition. Choice D is incorrect as gestational diabetes is not rare and requires monitoring and sometimes treatment to manage effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Regular contractions every 10 minutes or less. This is a key sign of preterm labor because regular contractions at this frequency could indicate the onset of labor before the full term. Contractions help to thin and dilate the cervix, leading to the birth of the baby. Decreased fetal movement (B) is a concerning sign but not a definitive indicator of preterm labor. Mild cramping and back pain (C) can be common in pregnancy and may not necessarily indicate preterm labor. Increased energy levels and appetite (D) are not typical signs of preterm labor, as the body usually shows signs of preparing for labor rather than increased energy levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use a firm mattress and avoid sleeping on the back. This recommendation is appropriate because during pregnancy, the weight of the uterus can compress blood vessels when lying on the back, causing back pain and affecting circulation. Using a firm mattress can provide better support for the back, relieving discomfort. Avoiding sleeping on the back reduces the risk of decreased blood flow to the fetus. A: Rest in bed and avoid any physical activity is incorrect because it can lead to muscle stiffness and worsen back pain. C: Taking over-the-counter pain medications may provide temporary relief but does not address the root cause of the discomfort. D: Applying heat to the back and practicing good posture are helpful strategies, but avoiding sleeping on the back is more crucial to alleviate the symptoms in this case.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor the patient's blood pressure and check for signs of preeclampsia. At 26 weeks gestation, headaches and blurred vision could be symptoms of preeclampsia, a serious condition in pregnancy. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial as high blood pressure is a key indicator. Preeclampsia can lead to severe complications for both the mother and baby if left untreated. Encouraging over-the-counter pain medication (Choice A) may mask symptoms without addressing the underlying cause. Rest and hydration (Choice C) are important, but immediate evaluation for preeclampsia is necessary. Scheduling a follow-up appointment (Choice D) delays potential diagnosis and treatment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. At 34 weeks gestation, headaches and visual changes can be signs of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. The nurse should first monitor the patient's blood pressure as elevated BP is a key indicator of preeclampsia. Assessing for other signs like proteinuria and edema is crucial for early detection and timely intervention. Encouraging rest and fluids (choice B) may not address the underlying issue. Administering pain medication (choice C) only masks symptoms without addressing the potential serious condition. Scheduling an eye specialist appointment (choice D) is not the priority as the symptoms are more indicative of a systemic issue like preeclampsia.