The nurse is educating a client about complications of pregnancy. Which symptom requires immediate medical attention?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of maternal newborn nursing, it is crucial for nurses to educate pregnant clients about potential complications that require immediate medical attention. The correct answer to this question is option C) Severe headache and visual disturbances. This symptom is indicative of conditions such as preeclampsia or eclampsia, which are serious hypertensive disorders of pregnancy that can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the baby if not promptly treated. Option A) Mild swelling in the feet, although common in pregnancy, is usually not a cause for immediate concern unless it is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms of preeclampsia. Option B) Heartburn after eating is a common discomfort in pregnancy but does not typically require urgent medical attention. Option D) Frequent urination is a common symptom in pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder, but it is not an emergency unless accompanied by pain, burning, or other concerning symptoms. Educationally, it is important for nurses to emphasize the significance of recognizing and reporting signs and symptoms of potentially serious pregnancy complications. Timely intervention and management of conditions like preeclampsia can significantly impact maternal and fetal outcomes, underscoring the critical role of patient education in promoting maternal and newborn health.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In maternal newborn nursing, routine ultrasound examinations play a crucial role in monitoring the health and development of the fetus. The primary focus of an ultrasound at 20 weeks' gestation is to evaluate fetal anatomy and growth. This is the correct answer (B) because at this stage, major structural abnormalities can be detected, such as neural tube defects, heart abnormalities, and abdominal wall defects. It also allows for assessing growth parameters like fetal size, amniotic fluid volume, and placental location, which are essential for determining the well-being of the fetus. Option A, confirming the baby's sex, is not the primary focus of a 20-week ultrasound. While sex determination can be done during this scan, it is not the main reason for the examination and should not be the primary focus. Option C, assessing maternal cervical length, is important but is typically done in the context of evaluating the risk of preterm labor, not during a routine ultrasound at 20 weeks' gestation. Option D, checking for signs of preterm labor, is also not the primary focus of a routine 20-week ultrasound. Signs of preterm labor would involve different assessments such as monitoring uterine activity, cervical changes, and assessing for symptoms like vaginal bleeding or pelvic pressure. Understanding the primary objectives of different prenatal assessments is crucial for providing comprehensive care to pregnant individuals and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the fetus. By focusing on evaluating fetal anatomy and growth during a 20-week ultrasound, healthcare providers can detect potential issues early, provide appropriate interventions, and support optimal outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of educating a client with gestational diabetes about blood sugar monitoring, option C, "I will monitor my blood sugar four times a day as prescribed," is the correct statement that indicates understanding. This statement reflects the importance of regular monitoring as per the healthcare provider's instructions to manage gestational diabetes effectively. Option A, "I will check my blood sugar once a week," is incorrect because gestational diabetes requires more frequent monitoring due to the dynamic nature of blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Option B, "I should avoid all carbohydrates," is incorrect as complete avoidance of carbohydrates is not recommended. The focus should be on consuming complex carbohydrates in moderation and balancing them with proteins and healthy fats. Option D, "I can skip insulin on days I feel well," is incorrect as insulin therapy should be followed as prescribed by the healthcare provider, regardless of how the individual feels on a particular day. In an educational context, it is essential to emphasize the significance of consistent blood sugar monitoring to ensure timely adjustments in treatment plans, maintain optimal glucose levels for both maternal and fetal health, and reduce the risk of complications associated with gestational diabetes. Patients need to understand the rationale behind monitoring frequency and the potential consequences of inadequate monitoring or deviations from the prescribed management plan.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In fetal circulation, the correct answer is A) Ductus arteriosus. The ductus arteriosus is a fetal blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the fetal lungs by connecting the pulmonary artery to the aorta. This shunts blood away from the non-functional fetal lungs to ensure oxygenated blood is circulated throughout the body. Option B) Ductus venosus carries oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetal heart, aiding in bypassing the liver. Option C) Foramen ovale is an opening between the atria of the fetal heart, allowing blood to bypass the pulmonary circulation. Option D) Umbilical vein carries oxygenated blood from the placenta to the fetus. Understanding fetal circulation is crucial in maternal newborn nursing as it impacts fetal oxygenation and overall well-being. Teaching this concept helps prenatal caregivers understand the unique circulatory adaptations in the fetus and recognize any deviations that may require intervention.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the scenario of a client receiving magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia, the finding that indicates magnesium toxicity is a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute (Option C). This is due to the fact that magnesium sulfate is a central nervous system depressant and can lead to respiratory depression as a sign of toxicity. A decreased respiratory rate is a critical indicator of magnesium toxicity and requires prompt intervention to prevent further complications such as respiratory arrest. Option A, increased urine output, is not indicative of magnesium toxicity but rather a desired effect of magnesium sulfate which helps to prevent fluid overload and maintain renal function in preeclamptic clients. Option B, deep tendon reflexes +4, is a common finding in clients receiving magnesium sulfate as it is a magnesium antagonist. Hyperactive reflexes are actually a sign of magnesium deficiency rather than toxicity. Option D, a blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg, is within normal range for a pregnant client with preeclampsia and does not specifically indicate magnesium toxicity. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of magnesium toxicity is crucial for nurses caring for clients receiving magnesium sulfate therapy during pregnancy. Recognizing these signs promptly is essential to prevent serious complications and ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Regular monitoring and assessment are key components of managing clients on magnesium therapy.