The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is experiencing frequent contractions. The patient asks the nurse if the contractions are normal. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Frequent contractions may be a sign of preterm labor, and further evaluation is needed. This response is appropriate because frequent contractions in a pregnant patient can indicate preterm labor, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent potential complications for both the mother and the baby. It is crucial to evaluate the situation to determine the cause of the contractions and take appropriate actions. Explanation for other choices: A: Contractions are common at this stage and are usually harmless - This is inaccurate as frequent contractions, especially in a pregnant patient, should not be dismissed as harmless without proper evaluation. B: Frequent contractions are always a sign of labor starting - This is incorrect because frequent contractions do not always indicate the onset of labor, especially in the case of preterm labor. D: You should drink more water to stop the contractions from happening - This is not an appropriate response as hydration may not necessarily stop contractions, especially if they are due to pre

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Folic acid helps prevent birth defects of the spine and brain. Folic acid is crucial during pregnancy as it plays a key role in neural tube development, reducing the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida. This is supported by research and guidelines. B: Folic acid does not influence the gender of the baby, as it is determined by the father's sperm. C: Folic acid does not directly prevent nausea during pregnancy; it is mainly for neural tube development. D: Folic acid does not specifically help the placenta attach to the uterus; that process is regulated by other factors. In summary, choice A is correct as it directly relates to the essential role of folic acid in preventing birth defects, while the other choices are unrelated or inaccurate in the context of folic acid's benefits during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because eating small, frequent meals and avoiding greasy foods can help manage nausea and vomiting during pregnancy by preventing the stomach from becoming too full or empty. Large amounts of water at once (choice A) can worsen nausea. Taking anti-nausea medications without consulting a doctor (choice C) can be unsafe during pregnancy. Lying flat on your back after eating (choice D) can increase the risk of acid reflux.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to drink a cold beverage and lie down. This is the correct action as it promotes fetal movement by stimulating the baby with a change in temperature and position. It is a non-invasive and immediate measure that can be taken by the patient herself. Choice B is incorrect because waiting 24 hours could delay necessary intervention if the fetus is in distress. Choice C is incorrect as ordering an ultrasound may not be the most immediate or necessary action at this point. Choice D is incorrect as calling the healthcare provider immediately may not be necessary if the issue can be resolved by the patient changing her position and trying to stimulate fetal movement first.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Monitor blood pressure and assess for protein in the urine. This is crucial in the care of a pregnant patient with mild preeclampsia at 30 weeks gestation. Monitoring blood pressure helps in assessing the severity of the condition and guiding treatment. Assessing for protein in the urine confirms the diagnosis and helps in monitoring kidney function and overall disease progression. Explanation of why the other choices are incorrect: A: Administering magnesium sulfate is typically indicated for severe preeclampsia to prevent seizures, not mild preeclampsia. C: Encouraging rest and restricted activity can help manage symptoms but is not a primary intervention for mild preeclampsia. D: Daily blood glucose monitoring is important for gestational diabetes, not specifically for mild preeclampsia.