ATI RN
Maternal and Newborn Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is monitoring a client with gestational hypertension. What symptom requires immediate intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the context of monitoring a client with gestational hypertension, the symptom that requires immediate intervention is a severe headache and vision changes, marked by option C. This is because these signs can indicate a severe complication called preeclampsia, which is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to other organs, such as the kidneys and liver. A weight gain of 1 pound in a week (option A) can be a common occurrence in pregnancy and may not necessarily warrant immediate intervention unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Slight swelling of the hands and feet (option B) is also common in pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, and is known as edema. While it should be monitored, it alone may not signify a need for immediate intervention. A blood pressure of 135/85 mmHg (option D) is elevated but not necessarily at a critical level requiring immediate intervention in this context. However, it should be closely monitored as it could indicate worsening hypertension or preeclampsia if accompanied by other symptoms. Educationally, this scenario highlights the importance of recognizing key symptoms that signify a worsening condition in gestational hypertension, such as severe headache and vision changes, and the need for prompt intervention to prevent maternal and fetal complications. Nurses must be vigilant in assessing and responding to these signs to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and newborn.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is prescribed birth control pills. What should the nurse include in the patient education regarding missed doses?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered and the next dose taken at the usual time. Choice A is incorrect because taking two doses at once may cause side effects. Choice C is incorrect because missing a dose does not require skipping the next dose. Choice D is incorrect because missing a dose does not typically require stopping the pills, but rather following instructions to compensate for the missed dose.
Question 3 of 5
A patient would like to use the calendar method for contraception. She has charted her menstrual cycles for several months. Her longest menstrual cycle was 39 days long, and her shortest period was 29 days long. The nurse educates the patient to avoid condomless intercourse during what range of days of the cycle?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the calendar method of contraception, women track their menstrual cycles to identify fertile days when they should avoid unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. In this case, the patient had a range of 29 to 39 days for her menstrual cycles. Option B (day 10 through day 15) is the correct answer because it takes into account the potential variation in cycle length. This range is based on the assumption that ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period. By avoiding intercourse during these days, the likelihood of conception is lower. Option A (day 9 through day 19) is too broad and may not be accurate for this patient's specific cycle lengths. Option C (day 12 through day 16) does not consider the variability in cycle length, which could lead to inaccurate predictions of fertility. Option D (day 11 through day 28) includes days that are likely outside of the fertile window based on the patient's cycle lengths. Educationally, it is important for nurses to teach patients about the calendar method's limitations, such as cycle variability and the potential for inaccurate predictions. It is crucial to tailor the method to individual cycle patterns and provide clear instructions on tracking and interpreting menstrual cycles for effective contraception.
Question 4 of 5
What is the LNG-IUC mechanism of action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The LNG-IUC, or levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, works primarily by thickening the cervical mucus, which inhibits the passage of sperm through the cervix. This mechanism reduces the likelihood of fertilization occurring. Additionally, LNG-IUC also causes atrophic changes in the endometrium, which makes it less conducive for implantation of a fertilized egg, further decreasing the chance of pregnancy.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who is at 27 weeks of gestation and has preeclampsia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A platelet count of 60,000/mm3 is significantly low and can be indicative of thrombocytopenia, a potential complication of preeclampsia known as HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count). Thrombocytopenia increases the risk of bleeding complications during pregnancy and delivery, requiring prompt evaluation and management by the healthcare provider. The nurse should report this finding immediately to prevent any adverse outcomes for the client and baby.