The nurse is educating a client about signs of preterm labor. What symptom should be reported immediately?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and maternal newborn care, it is crucial for nurses to educate clients about signs of preterm labor to ensure timely intervention and optimal outcomes. The correct answer, option B, low back pain and cramping, should be reported immediately because it can indicate the onset of preterm labor, which poses risks to both the mother and the newborn. These symptoms may signal cervical changes and uterine contractions that could lead to preterm birth. Option A, frequent urination, is a common symptom during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder. While it can be uncomfortable, it is not typically a sign of preterm labor. Option C, increased appetite, is also a common occurrence in pregnancy and does not directly correlate with preterm labor. It is important for pregnant individuals to maintain a balanced diet to support their nutritional needs during pregnancy. Option D, Braxton Hicks contractions, are often referred to as "practice contractions" and are usually irregular, mild, and do not cause cervical changes. While they can be uncomfortable, they are a normal part of pregnancy and not necessarily indicative of preterm labor. Educating clients about these distinctions empowers them to recognize concerning symptoms, seek timely medical attention, and potentially prevent preterm birth complications through early intervention and management. This knowledge is essential for promoting the health and well-being of both the mother and the newborn.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Increase fiber intake and fluids. During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to slowed bowel movements and constipation. Increasing fiber intake and fluids can help soften the stool and promote bowel regularity. Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are recommended. Adequate hydration is also crucial to prevent constipation. This advice is safe, effective, and promotes overall maternal well-being. Option A) Take a laxative daily is incorrect because regular use of laxatives during pregnancy is not recommended without healthcare provider supervision due to potential risks to the fetus and the mother. Option C) Avoid physical activity is incorrect as physical activity, within safe limits, can actually help alleviate constipation by promoting bowel motility and overall health during pregnancy. Option D) Limit vegetable consumption is incorrect because vegetables are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals essential for the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Restricting vegetable consumption could lead to nutritional deficiencies. In an educational context, it's important for nurses to provide evidence-based advice to pregnant clients to promote their well-being and address common concerns like constipation with safe and effective strategies that align with best practices in maternal care.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) It detects neural tube defects. The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test is a screening tool used in prenatal care to detect neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. During pregnancy, the fetus produces alpha-fetoprotein, which crosses the placenta and enters the mother's bloodstream. Abnormal levels of this protein can indicate a neural tube defect in the fetus. Option A) It screens for chromosomal abnormalities is incorrect because MSAFP does not specifically screen for chromosomal abnormalities; other tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling are used for that purpose. Option C) It confirms the gestational age of the baby is incorrect because MSAFP is not used to confirm gestational age. Ultrasound is the primary method for determining gestational age during pregnancy. Option D) It identifies the baby's sex is incorrect because MSAFP does not determine the baby's sex. Other tests like amniocentesis or ultrasound can reveal the baby's sex. Understanding the purpose of the MSAFP test is crucial in prenatal care to provide appropriate information and support to pregnant individuals. By knowing the correct purpose of this test, healthcare providers can offer appropriate counseling and follow-up care based on the results, contributing to positive maternal and newborn outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and maternal newborn care, the priority assessment immediately after administering an epidural for pain relief during labor is to monitor the maternal blood pressure (Option A). This is crucial because epidurals can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to maternal hypotension. Monitoring blood pressure allows the nurse to detect and intervene promptly to prevent adverse effects such as decreased placental perfusion, fetal distress, and maternal compromise. Assessing the fetal heart rate (Option B) is important but not the immediate priority after an epidural placement. While monitoring fetal well-being is essential during labor, maternal stability takes precedence in this scenario. Checking for bladder distention (Option C) is relevant for overall maternal well-being and prevention of urinary retention but is not the most critical assessment immediately post-epidural placement. Evaluating the client's pain level (Option D) is important for assessing the effectiveness of pain management but is secondary to monitoring maternal blood pressure, especially considering the potential complications associated with epidural-induced hypotension. Educationally, understanding the priority assessments after specific interventions like epidural administration enhances nurses' ability to provide safe and effective care to laboring women and their infants. It highlights the importance of timely interventions based on potential complications associated with pharmacological pain management strategies during childbirth.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, understanding the signs of true labor is crucial for nurses caring for pregnant clients. Option C, contractions that increase in intensity and cause cervical changes, indicates true labor. This is because true labor involves rhythmic, regular contractions that lead to progressive dilation and effacement of the cervix, preparing the body for childbirth. Option A, irregular contractions relieved by rest, is incorrect because true labor contractions follow a pattern and do not subside with rest. Option B, contractions felt only in the abdomen, is also incorrect as true labor contractions are typically felt in the lower back and wrap around to the front of the abdomen. Option D, absence of fetal movement, is unrelated to the onset of labor and does not signify true labor. Educationally, nurses must be able to differentiate between true labor and false labor to provide appropriate care and support to expectant mothers. Recognizing the signs of true labor helps in timely interventions and ensures the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Pharmacological knowledge can also be essential during labor and delivery to manage pain effectively and address any complications that may arise.