Nursing Elites

1. When should a provider order a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening for pregnant clients?

• A. A client who has mitral valve prolapse
• B. A client who has been exposed to AIDS
• C. All pregnant clients
• D. A client who has a history of preterm labor

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) screening is recommended for all pregnant clients to assess the risk of neural tube defects. It is a routine screening test used to detect increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein in maternal blood, which may indicate a higher risk for conditions such as neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Therefore, all pregnant clients, regardless of their medical history or risk factors, should undergo MSAFP screening as part of routine prenatal care. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the MSAFP screening is not specific to certain medical conditions or histories; it is a standard screening procedure for all pregnant individuals to evaluate neural tube defect risk in the fetus.

2. While observing the electronic fetal heart rate monitor tracing for a client at 40 weeks of gestation in labor, a nurse should suspect a problem with the umbilical cord when she observes which of the following patterns?

• A. Early decelerations
• B. Accelerations
• C. Late decelerations
• D. Variable decelerations

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Variable decelerations can indicate umbilical cord compression, which is a concern that may arise due to the umbilical cord being compressed during labor. This compression can lead to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus, necessitating close monitoring and potentially interventions to alleviate the pressure on the cord. Early decelerations are typically benign and mirror the contractions, indicating fetal head compression. Accelerations are reassuring patterns that show a healthy response to fetal movement. Late decelerations are concerning as they suggest uteroplacental insufficiency, indicating potential oxygen deprivation to the fetus.

3. A client at 39 weeks of gestation in a prenatal clinic asks about signs preceding labor. Which of the following should the nurse identify as a sign that precedes labor?

• A. Decreased vaginal discharge
• B. A surge of energy
• C. Urinary retention
• D. Weight gain of 0.5 to 1.5 kg

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A surge of energy is a common sign that precedes labor. This burst of energy, often referred to as the 'nesting instinct,' is believed to occur as the body prepares for labor, prompting the individual to undertake tasks to prepare for the arrival of the baby. Decreased vaginal discharge is not a typical sign preceding labor. Urinary retention is not a sign that precedes labor and may indicate another issue. Weight gain of 0.5 to 1.5 kg is not a specific sign of impending labor.

4. A client who is at 36 weeks of gestation and has a prescription for a nonstress test is being taught by a nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You will receive IV fluid before this test.
• B. The procedure will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
• C. You will be offered orange juice to drink during the test.
• D. You will need to sign an informed consent form before each test.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct statement the nurse should include in the teaching is that the client will be offered orange juice to drink during the nonstress test. This is because offering the client orange juice, or another beverage high in glucose, will help stimulate the fetus during the procedure, aiding in obtaining accurate results. Choice A is incorrect because IV fluid is not typically administered before a nonstress test. Choice B is incorrect as the procedure usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes. Choice D is incorrect as informed consent is typically obtained once for the procedure, not before each individual test.

5. A healthcare provider is reviewing the health record of a client who is pregnant. The provider indicated the client exhibits probable signs of pregnancy. Which of the following findings should the provider expect? (Select all that apply)

• A. Chadwick's sign
• B. Goodell's sign
• C. Ballottement
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Chadwick's sign, Goodell's sign, and ballottement are probable signs of pregnancy. Chadwick's sign refers to a bluish discoloration of the cervix and vaginal mucosa. Goodell's sign is the softening of the cervix due to increased vascularity. Ballottement is the rebound of the fetus when the cervix is tapped during a vaginal examination. Recognizing these signs is essential for healthcare providers in assessing pregnancy. Therefore, all of the above choices are correct as they are all probable signs of pregnancy. Choice D is the correct answer as it includes all the expected findings.

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