ATI RN
Maternity Heartbeat Monitor Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 30 weeks gestation and reports feeling faint and lightheaded. What is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Encourage the patient to take deep breaths and sit down immediately. This action is appropriate because the patient is experiencing symptoms of hypotension, which can lead to decreased blood flow to the brain causing faintness and lightheadedness. By encouraging the patient to take deep breaths and sit down immediately, the nurse is helping to increase oxygen intake and improve circulation, which can alleviate the symptoms. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: A: Instructing the patient to lie on her back can actually worsen symptoms as it can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the brain. C: Instructing the patient to stand up slowly is not appropriate as the patient is already feeling faint and lightheaded. This can increase the risk of falling and injury. D: Asking the patient to eat something sweet may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms, which is likely related to hypotension. It is important to address the immediate
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient is at 32 weeks gestation and complains of shortness of breath, swelling of the hands, and increased weight gain. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. At 32 weeks gestation, the patient's symptoms suggest possible preeclampsia, a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Assessing blood pressure and checking for proteinuria are crucial for diagnosing and managing preeclampsia. Administering oxygen or preparing for a cesarean section is not the priority without proper assessment. Encouraging rest and elevation of legs may help with swelling, but addressing the potential preeclampsia is more urgent. Instructing the patient to drink fluids is not the priority as it does not address the underlying issue of preeclampsia.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient at 12 weeks gestation is asking about safe activities during pregnancy. Which of the following responses is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because moderate exercise like walking and swimming is generally safe during pregnancy and can provide health benefits for both the mother and the baby. Walking and swimming are low-impact activities that can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being without posing significant risks. Option A is incorrect as physical activity is important during pregnancy, and avoiding all activity can be detrimental to both the mother and the baby. Option C is incorrect as engaging in vigorous exercise may increase the risk of injury or complications during pregnancy. Option D is incorrect as a variety of moderate exercises beyond just yoga and stretching can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 36 weeks gestation and is concerned about the upcoming delivery. Which of the following statements by the nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Labor can be unpredictable, and each birth is different." This response acknowledges the variability and individuality of labor experiences, providing reassurance to the patient. Labor outcomes depend on various factors such as maternal health, baby's position, and other unforeseen circumstances. Explanation: 1. A (Labor will likely be quick and easy, especially since this is your first pregnancy): This statement is incorrect because the duration and ease of labor are not solely determined by the patient's parity (number of pregnancies). Each labor is unique and may vary in length and intensity regardless of previous pregnancies. 2. C (You will probably need a cesarean section since you are at full term): This statement is incorrect as the majority of pregnant women deliver vaginally at full term. Cesarean section is not a predetermined outcome solely based on gestational age. 3. D (You may not feel any pain during labor because of modern pain relief options): This statement is incorrect because pain
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 26 weeks gestation and reports feeling dizzy when standing. What should the nurse recommend to the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stand up slowly and make sure to drink plenty of fluids. When a pregnant patient feels dizzy when standing, it is likely due to postural hypotension. Standing up slowly helps prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness. Drinking plenty of fluids helps maintain adequate blood volume and prevents dehydration, another common cause of dizziness during pregnancy. Sitting down immediately (B) may help temporarily but does not address the underlying issue. Lying flat on the back (C) can worsen symptoms by putting pressure on the vena cava, reducing blood flow to the brain. Taking deep breaths and elevating legs (D) may not be effective in addressing postural hypotension.