The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 32 weeks gestation and reports a sudden increase in vaginal discharge. What is the nurse's priority action?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess the color, consistency, and odor of the discharge. This is the priority action because sudden increase in vaginal discharge could indicate potential issues such as infection or preterm labor. By assessing the characteristics of the discharge, the nurse can gather important information to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate interventions. Choice B is incorrect as simply instructing the patient to rest and monitor the discharge does not address the potential seriousness of the situation. Choice C is incorrect as increasing fluid intake may not necessarily reduce the discharge and could potentially worsen the situation if there is an underlying issue. Choice D is incorrect as performing a pelvic exam should not be the initial priority without first assessing the characteristics of the discharge.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Frequent urination and excessive thirst. In gestational diabetes, the body may not be able to produce enough insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. The excess sugar in the blood can cause increased thirst and frequent urination as the body tries to eliminate the sugar through urine. This is a key sign that the nurse should monitor for in a pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation. Nausea and vomiting after meals (B) are more commonly associated with morning sickness in early pregnancy. Increased appetite and weight gain (C) can occur during pregnancy but are not specific signs of gestational diabetes. Fatigue and dizziness during physical activity (D) can be common in pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased demands on the body but are not specific to gestational diabetes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Frequent, regular contractions every 10 minutes or less are a key sign of preterm labor, indicating the uterus is contracting and potentially dilating prematurely. Step 2: This pattern of contractions can lead to preterm delivery and requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications for both the mother and the baby. Step 3: Decreased fetal movement and back pain (Option B) are not specific signs of preterm labor but can indicate other issues that need evaluation. Step 4: Mild cramping and occasional vaginal spotting (Option C) can be normal in pregnancy and may not always indicate preterm labor. Step 5: Headaches and blurred vision (Option D) are more indicative of conditions like preeclampsia rather than preterm labor.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because getting up slowly and taking small sips of water throughout the day helps maintain blood pressure and hydration, which can improve symptoms of feeling faint and lightheaded during pregnancy. Lying down immediately (choice A) may not address the underlying issue of potential low blood pressure. Taking deep breaths and drinking a cold beverage (choice B) may not address the need for increased fluid intake and gradual position changes. Sitting upright and monitoring symptoms (choice D) may not actively address the immediate need for hydration and blood pressure management.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because excessive weight gain during pregnancy can lead to complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. As the nurse, it is important to educate the patient on the risks associated with excessive weight gain. By highlighting these potential complications, the nurse can emphasize the importance of monitoring weight gain and making healthy choices. Choices A and B are incorrect as they do not address the risks of excessive weight gain. Choice D is also incorrect as it suggests limiting caloric intake, which may not provide adequate nutrition for the growing fetus. It is crucial to educate the patient on the importance of a balanced diet and healthy weight gain to promote a healthy pregnancy.