ATI RN
Maternal Monitoring Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is providing prenatal education to a pregnant patient at 20 weeks gestation. Which of the following actions should the nurse prioritize?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Discussing the signs and symptoms of preterm labor. This is crucial at 20 weeks gestation as preterm labor can occur. By educating the patient on the signs and symptoms, the nurse can empower her to recognize and seek prompt medical attention if needed. Assessing for gestational hypertension (A) is important but typically done later in pregnancy. Encouraging avoidance of all forms of exercise (B) is not recommended as moderate exercise is beneficial during pregnancy. Reviewing newborn care practices and breastfeeding options (C) is important but not the priority at this stage.
Question 2 of 5
A pregnant patient is at 24 weeks gestation and reports feeling fatigued and weak. What is the most appropriate action for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the patient's hemoglobin and hematocrit levels to check for anemia. Fatigue and weakness in pregnancy can be symptoms of anemia, a common condition due to increased blood volume demands. By checking hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, the nurse can confirm or rule out anemia as the cause. Resting alone may not address the underlying issue, and high-calorie diet or regular exercise may not be appropriate if anemia is present. It is crucial to identify the root cause to provide the most effective intervention.
Question 3 of 5
A pregnant patient is 28 weeks gestation and is concerned about gaining too much weight. Which of the following is most important for the nurse to emphasize?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because excessive weight gain during pregnancy can indeed increase the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. By emphasizing this point, the nurse can help the patient understand the importance of monitoring their weight gain to promote a healthy pregnancy. Choice A is not as strong because it focuses more on discussing concerns with the healthcare provider rather than the specific risks associated with excessive weight gain. Choice B is incorrect as weight gain during pregnancy should be monitored and managed appropriately. Choice D is also incorrect as it suggests limiting caloric intake, which may not be safe or appropriate for the patient and her developing fetus.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a pregnant patient who is at 30 weeks gestation and reports experiencing dizziness and fainting when standing. What is the most likely cause of these symptoms?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypotension due to pregnancy-related changes in circulation. During pregnancy, blood volume increases, leading to decreased blood pressure when standing. This can cause dizziness and fainting. Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance (B) may cause similar symptoms but are less common in pregnant patients. Iron-deficiency anemia (C) typically presents with fatigue and weakness, not dizziness and fainting. Gestational diabetes (D) usually manifests as high blood sugar levels, not low blood pressure leading to dizziness and fainting.
Question 5 of 5
A pregnant patient is at 30 weeks gestation and is experiencing dizziness and lightheadedness when standing. What is the nurse's first priority action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to drink fluids and rest for 10 minutes. This is the first priority action because dizziness and lightheadedness in a pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation could be due to orthostatic hypotension, a common issue in pregnancy. Encouraging the patient to drink fluids and rest will help increase blood volume and alleviate symptoms. Choice B is incorrect because lying flat on her back can worsen symptoms due to supine hypotensive syndrome. Choice C is not the first priority as checking for anemia or monitoring blood pressure should come after addressing immediate symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because immediate delivery is not warranted based on the symptoms described.