The nurse is providing prenatal education to a pregnant patient at 24 weeks gestation. Which of the following topics should the nurse prioritize during this visit?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Signs and symptoms of preterm labor and when to call the healthcare provider. This is the most crucial topic to prioritize at 24 weeks gestation because preterm labor can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby. By educating the patient on the signs and symptoms of preterm labor, such as abdominal cramping, backache, or vaginal bleeding, the nurse can empower the patient to recognize these warning signs early and seek prompt medical attention, potentially preventing preterm birth. Choice B: Breastfeeding techniques and infant care, and Choice C: Postpartum care and family planning options are important topics but are more relevant for later stages of pregnancy or after delivery. Choice D: Managing pregnancy-related fatigue and morning sickness is also important but is generally not as urgent as being aware of signs of preterm labor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because sudden severe headache and blurred vision in a pregnant patient at 36 weeks gestation are potential signs of preeclampsia, a serious condition that can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. Monitoring the patient's blood pressure and checking for signs of preeclampsia is crucial for early detection and timely intervention. Administering pain medication (choice A) may mask symptoms and delay appropriate treatment. Encouraging rest and fluids (choice C) may not address the underlying cause of the symptoms. Scheduling a follow-up appointment (choice D) may delay necessary immediate actions to address potential preeclampsia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Eat smaller meals more frequently and avoid lying down after meals. This is the best recommendation for the pregnant patient experiencing severe heartburn at 30 weeks gestation. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help reduce the amount of stomach acid produced, thus decreasing the likelihood of heartburn. Avoiding lying down after meals can prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, further reducing heartburn symptoms. Rationale for why other choices are incorrect: A: Lying down after meals can worsen heartburn by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. B: Drinking a large amount of water after eating may worsen heartburn by increasing stomach pressure and pushing stomach acid back up. D: Taking antacids regularly may provide temporary relief but is not addressing the root cause of the heartburn and may not be safe for long-term use during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Assess for signs of preterm labor and monitor the patient for regular contractions. This is the most appropriate action as the patient is experiencing cramping and lower abdominal discomfort, which could indicate preterm labor. Step 1: Assessing for signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, is crucial to determine the patient's condition. Step 2: Monitoring the patient for regular contractions helps in identifying any patterns and assessing the progression of labor. Other choices are incorrect as B: Administering pain medications without assessing for preterm labor can mask important indicators. C: Performing a pelvic exam may increase the risk of infection and is not the priority. D: Instructing the patient to increase fluid intake may not address the potential risk of preterm labor.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because positioning the patient in a semi-reclined or left side position can alleviate pressure on the diaphragm and improve breathing. This position helps optimize blood flow to the uterus and placenta. Encouraging rest in this position can improve oxygenation for both the mother and fetus. Administering oxygen (Choice B) may help with oxygenation but does not address the underlying issue of positional discomfort. Monitoring fetal heart rate (Choice C) is important but not the first action to address the mother's breathing difficulty. Instructing the patient to take shallow breaths and stay in bed (Choice D) does not address the positional component of the issue.