The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is concerned about preterm labor. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse instruct the patient to report immediately?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Leaking of clear fluid from the vagina. This symptom could indicate premature rupture of membranes, which is a serious concern in preterm labor. Prompt reporting is crucial to prevent complications. A: Mild back pain and cramping are common in pregnancy and may not necessarily indicate preterm labor. B: Feeling of pelvic pressure can be normal in the third trimester. D: Increased fatigue is common in pregnancy and not a direct sign of preterm labor.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Elevating the legs and avoiding crossing them while sitting helps reduce swelling by promoting venous return and improving circulation. Elevating the legs above the heart level assists in reducing edema. Choices A and C are incorrect as limiting physical activity and wearing tight compression stockings may not effectively address the underlying issue of poor circulation. Choice B is also incorrect as increasing sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and worsen swelling.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria. Monitoring blood pressure and urine for protein is essential for early detection and intervention. Choice B is incorrect as abdominal pain and nausea are not specific symptoms of preeclampsia. Choice C is incorrect because excessive fluid intake can worsen preeclampsia. Choice D is incorrect as rest alone cannot prevent or manage preeclampsia. Prioritizing blood pressure and urine monitoring helps identify and manage preeclampsia efficiently.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Eat small, frequent meals and avoid spicy or fatty foods. This is because small, frequent meals can help manage nausea by preventing the stomach from becoming too full, while avoiding spicy or fatty foods can reduce irritation and ease digestion. Option B is incorrect as excessive water intake can worsen nausea. Option C is wrong as lying flat on the back can exacerbate nausea and is not recommended during pregnancy. Option D is incorrect because skipping meals can lead to low blood sugar levels, worsening nausea. Overall, choice A aligns with evidence-based strategies for managing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the discharge for characteristics such as color, odor, and consistency. This is the priority action because sudden changes in vaginal discharge during pregnancy could indicate a potential infection or other complications that need to be promptly addressed. By assessing the characteristics of the discharge, the nurse can gather important information to determine the appropriate next steps, whether it requires immediate medical attention or can be managed with monitoring. Choice A is incorrect because simply using a sanitary pad and monitoring for changes does not address the underlying cause of the increased discharge. Choice C is incorrect as rest alone may not address the potential issue with the discharge. Choice D is also incorrect because while contacting the healthcare provider is important, assessing the discharge first provides crucial information for a more informed discussion with the provider.