ATI RN
External Maternal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is providing education to a pregnant patient about diet during pregnancy. Which of the following statements indicates that the patient needs further teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the statement "I can eat whatever I want as long as I am gaining weight steadily" indicates a misunderstanding of healthy eating during pregnancy. The rationale is that pregnancy is a crucial time for proper nutrition, and simply focusing on weight gain without considering the quality of food can lead to health risks for both the mother and the baby. Choices A, B, and D are all correct statements that promote a healthy diet during pregnancy by emphasizing the importance of nutrient-dense foods, limiting unhealthy choices, and staying hydrated.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is educating a pregnant patient about the importance of exercise during pregnancy. Which statement by the patient indicates that the teaching has been effective?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it acknowledges the importance of moderate exercise during pregnancy to prepare the body for labor. This shows understanding of the benefits of exercise for both the mother and baby. Choice A is incorrect as it promotes complete avoidance of exercise, which is not recommended. Choice C is incorrect because exercise is beneficial throughout pregnancy, not just in the second trimester. Choice D is incorrect because some exercises may not be safe during pregnancy, so comfort alone is not the only factor to consider.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is 12 weeks gestation and reports feeling fatigued. Which of the following is the nurse's most appropriate response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Correct Answer: A Rationale: 1. Fatigue is common in the first trimester due to hormonal changes and increased energy demands. 2. Second trimester typically brings relief as hormone levels stabilize and energy levels increase. 3. Reassuring the patient about the normalcy of fatigue promotes understanding and reduces anxiety. Summary: - Choice B focuses on rest but does not address the normalcy of fatigue in the first trimester. - Choice C jumps to conclusions without considering common causes first. - Choice D assumes iron deficiency without assessing the patient's overall health status.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation who complains of pain in the lower abdomen and back. The nurse finds no signs of labor. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to rest and monitor for any changes in symptoms. At 36 weeks gestation, the patient might be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or round ligament pain, which are common in late pregnancy. Encouraging rest allows for potential relief of discomfort. Monitoring for any changes in symptoms is essential to rule out preterm labor. Option B is incorrect as administering pain medication without identifying the cause may mask symptoms of preterm labor. Option C is incorrect as performing a pelvic exam could potentially cause harm if the patient is experiencing preterm labor. Option D is incorrect as prolonged bed rest is not recommended in pregnancy and may not alleviate the pain or address the underlying cause.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 24 weeks gestation and reports difficulty breathing, especially when lying flat. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Assessing the patient's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation is essential to determine the severity of the breathing difficulty. Step 2: It helps in identifying potential respiratory issues or complications that may require immediate intervention. Step 3: This data will guide the nurse in making informed decisions regarding further management and treatment. Step 4: Encouraging rest (B) may be appropriate after assessment. Administering oxygen and preparing for delivery (C) is premature without assessment. Asking the patient to lie on her left side (D) without initial assessment may delay necessary interventions.