ATI RN
Maternal Fetal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient at 32 weeks gestation who reports feeling lightheaded and faint when standing. What should the nurse recommend?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increase fluid intake and avoid standing for long periods. This recommendation is appropriate for the patient's symptoms of lightheadedness and fainting, which could be due to dehydration or low blood pressure common in pregnancy. Increasing fluid intake can help maintain adequate blood volume and pressure. Avoiding prolonged standing can prevent pooling of blood in the lower extremities, reducing the risk of dizziness. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Taking deep breaths and rising quickly may worsen symptoms by causing a sudden drop in blood pressure. C: Complete rest and avoiding physical activity may not address the underlying issue of hydration or blood pressure. D: Sitting upright and avoiding bending forward may not directly address the need for increased fluid intake and reduced standing time.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is educating a pregnant patient about the signs of preterm labor. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching plan?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because frequent, regular contractions every 10 minutes or less are a classic sign of preterm labor, indicating the need for immediate medical attention. Decreased fetal movement and back pain (choice B) are not specific signs of preterm labor. Mild cramping and occasional vaginal spotting (choice C) could be normal in pregnancy or may indicate other issues, but they are not definitive signs of preterm labor. Headaches and blurred vision (choice D) are more indicative of preeclampsia, a separate condition from preterm labor. Therefore, choice A is the most accurate and specific sign to include in the teaching plan for preterm labor.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient at 32 weeks gestation reports severe heartburn. What should the nurse recommend to relieve symptoms?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid lying down after eating. This recommendation helps prevent acid reflux by reducing the pressure on the stomach and ensuring that the stomach is not overly full. Eating smaller meals more frequently prevents the stomach from becoming too full, which can trigger heartburn. Avoiding lying down after eating helps prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Options A, C, and D are incorrect. Taking antacids after every meal can lead to excessive intake and potential side effects. Drinking water immediately after meals may exacerbate heartburn by diluting stomach acid further. Increasing caffeine intake can worsen heartburn symptoms due to its ability to relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 32 weeks gestation and reports frequent headaches and nausea. What should the nurse do first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor the patient's blood pressure and assess for signs of preeclampsia. At 32 weeks gestation, headaches and nausea could be symptoms of preeclampsia, a serious condition in pregnancy. Monitoring blood pressure is crucial as preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure. Assessing for signs of preeclampsia, such as proteinuria or visual disturbances, is essential for timely intervention. Administering anti-nausea medication or encouraging rest without addressing the possibility of preeclampsia could delay necessary treatment. Scheduling a follow-up appointment without immediate assessment could also put the patient at risk if preeclampsia is present.
Question 5 of 5
A pregnant patient at 28 weeks gestation reports dizziness and faintness when standing. What is the nurse's most appropriate recommendation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Instruct the patient to increase fluid intake and stand slowly. This recommendation is appropriate because the patient is likely experiencing orthostatic hypotension due to the expanding uterus compressing blood vessels, leading to decreased blood flow to the brain when standing. Increasing fluid intake helps maintain blood volume, while standing slowly helps prevent sudden drops in blood pressure. A: Rising quickly can worsen dizziness by further decreasing blood flow to the brain. C: Resting in bed may not address the underlying issue of orthostatic hypotension and may lead to deconditioning. D: Avoiding standing for long periods may be impractical and may not address the need to maintain adequate blood volume and prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.