The nurse is educating a client about exercises during pregnancy. What activity should be avoided?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of educating a pregnant client about exercises during pregnancy, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of avoiding contact sports, which is the correct answer (C). Contact sports pose a risk of injury to both the mother and the developing fetus due to the physical nature of these activities. Pregnant women are advised to steer clear of activities that involve a high risk of falls, collisions, or direct impacts to the abdomen to safeguard the well-being of themselves and their baby. Walking (B) is generally considered a safe and beneficial form of exercise during pregnancy as it helps maintain cardiovascular fitness and can be easily adapted to individual fitness levels. Swimming (A) is another excellent low-impact exercise option for pregnant women as it provides a full-body workout without putting stress on the joints. Prenatal yoga (D) is also a popular choice as it focuses on gentle stretching, breathing techniques, and relaxation, which can help improve flexibility, strength, and mental well-being during pregnancy. Educationally, it is important to provide pregnant clients with specific guidance on safe and appropriate exercise options based on their individual health status, stage of pregnancy, and any obstetric considerations. Encouraging regular physical activity while highlighting the importance of avoiding high-risk activities like contact sports is essential for promoting a healthy pregnancy and optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the most important assessment immediately after the placement of an epidural during labor is to monitor maternal blood pressure (Option C). This is crucial because epidural anesthesia can cause hypotension in the mother due to vasodilation, leading to decreased perfusion to the placenta and compromising fetal well-being. Assessing maternal temperature (Option A) is important but not the most critical immediate assessment post-epidural placement. Lower extremity weakness (Option B) is a common side effect of epidural anesthesia but does not take precedence over monitoring blood pressure. Checking fetal presentation (Option D) is also important but is secondary to ensuring maternal hemodynamic stability. Educationally, understanding the implications of epidural anesthesia on maternal blood pressure and fetal well-being is vital for nurses caring for laboring women. It emphasizes the need for close monitoring and prompt intervention to maintain a safe environment for both the mother and the baby during labor and delivery.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, option B, "It is normal to have heavy bleeding for two weeks," indicates the need for further teaching. Postpartum bleeding, known as lochia, typically lasts for about 4-6 weeks, with the flow gradually decreasing over time. Heavy bleeding persisting for two weeks could signal a potential issue, such as retained placental tissue or infection, requiring medical attention. Option A, "I will call my doctor if I have a fever," is correct as fever can be a sign of infection postpartum, which needs prompt evaluation and treatment. Option C, "I will avoid lifting heavy objects," is also correct as heavy lifting can strain the healing tissues post-delivery. Option D, "Breast tenderness is common when my milk comes in," is correct as breast tenderness is a common occurrence during lactation due to engorgement and milk production. Educationally, it is essential for nurses to provide accurate information about postpartum care to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the newborn. Recognizing signs of complications early is crucial for timely intervention and optimal recovery. Empowering clients with correct knowledge enhances their ability to make informed decisions and promotes positive health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the scenario of a client at 38 weeks' gestation with suspected placental abruption, the priority nursing action is to assess maternal vital signs and fetal heart rate (Option A). This is crucial in determining the immediate status of both the mother and the baby. Placental abruption can lead to serious complications, including maternal hemorrhage and fetal distress, necessitating close monitoring of vital signs and fetal well-being. Preparing the client for immediate cesarean delivery (Option B) may be necessary depending on the severity of the abruption, but it should not be the immediate priority without assessing the current status of the mother and baby first. Administering oxygen (Option C) is important in cases of suspected placental abruption, but assessing the vital signs and fetal heart rate takes precedence. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter (Option D) is not the priority in this situation and does not address the immediate threat to the mother and baby's health. In an educational context, understanding the hierarchy of nursing actions in emergencies like placental abruption is vital for providing safe and effective care. Prioritizing assessments allows for timely interventions and can improve outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Nurses need to be able to quickly identify the most critical actions to take in high-stress situations to provide optimal care.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Assess for cervical changes and fetal heart rate. The priority action for a client experiencing regular uterine contractions at 32 weeks' gestation is to assess for cervical changes and fetal heart rate to determine if the client is in preterm labor. This assessment is crucial for evaluating the status of the pregnancy and determining the appropriate course of action. Option A) Administer tocolytic medication as prescribed is incorrect because administering tocolytic medication should only be done after assessing for cervical changes and confirming preterm labor. Tocolytic medication is used to inhibit uterine contractions and delay preterm birth. Option B) Performing a sterile vaginal examination is not the priority in this situation as it can potentially introduce infection and is not necessary until the assessment of cervical changes and fetal heart rate has been completed. Option D) Encouraging ambulation to relieve discomfort is not the priority when there is a concern for preterm labor. While ambulation can sometimes help alleviate discomfort, it is not the appropriate action when assessing for preterm labor. Educationally, this scenario highlights the importance of prioritizing assessments in obstetric nursing. Understanding the sequence of actions in response to signs of preterm labor is critical in providing safe and effective care to pregnant clients. Early identification and timely intervention can significantly impact outcomes for both the mother and the baby.