The nurse is educating a client with gestational diabetes about blood sugar monitoring. What statement indicates understanding?

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: 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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, option B "I should seek help if I have trouble bonding with my baby" is the correct answer. This statement indicates understanding because it recognizes a key symptom of postpartum depression, which is difficulty bonding with the newborn. Seeking help is crucial in managing postpartum depression and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Option A is incorrect because while it is common to experience mood changes postpartum, feeling sad for the first 6 months is not necessarily indicative of postpartum depression. Option C is incorrect as postpartum depression can occur in any mother, regardless of whether it is their first pregnancy or not. Option D is also incorrect as ignoring feelings of hopelessness can exacerbate the situation and delay appropriate treatment. Educationally, it is important for nurses to teach clients about the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression to promote early detection and intervention. By emphasizing the importance of seeking help and providing support, nurses can empower mothers to prioritize their mental health during the postpartum period.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a client receiving magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia, a respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a serious adverse effect of magnesium toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can depress the central nervous system, leading to respiratory depression, which can progress to respiratory arrest if not addressed promptly. Therefore, discontinuing the infusion is crucial to prevent further complications. Option A (urine output of 50 mL/hour) is not a reason to discontinue the infusion as it falls within the expected range for a client receiving magnesium sulfate. Option C (blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg) is also not an immediate concern in the context of preeclampsia management. Option D (deep tendon reflexes +3) is a common finding in clients receiving magnesium sulfate and does not indicate the need to discontinue the infusion unless accompanied by other signs of magnesium toxicity. Educationally, understanding the signs of magnesium toxicity is vital for nurses caring for clients on magnesium sulfate therapy. Respiratory rate monitoring, along with other assessments, is critical to early identification of magnesium toxicity, allowing for prompt intervention to ensure client safety.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In prenatal education, it is crucial to highlight warning signs that could indicate potential complications requiring immediate medical attention. The correct answer is B) Headache unrelieved by rest or medication. This symptom can be indicative of conditions like preeclampsia or gestational hypertension, which are serious and require prompt evaluation to prevent harm to both the mother and the baby. Option A) Mild swelling in the feet is common in pregnancy but not typically a cause for immediate concern unless it is sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like high blood pressure. Option C) Increased appetite is a normal part of pregnancy for many women and is not usually a warning sign unless it is extreme and accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Option D) Frequent urination is a common pregnancy symptom due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder. It is not typically a cause for immediate alarm unless it is accompanied by pain, burning, or other symptoms of a urinary tract infection. Educationally, teaching about these warning signs empowers pregnant individuals to recognize when they should seek medical help promptly, promoting better outcomes for both mother and baby. It is essential for prenatal classes to cover these topics comprehensively to ensure the well-being of expectant mothers and their babies.