a nurse is assessing a client who is in the third trimester of pregnancy the nurse should recognize which of the following findings as an expected phy
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ATI Maternal Newborn

1. During the third trimester of pregnancy, which of the following findings should a nurse recognize as an expected physiologic change?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During pregnancy, gradual lordosis is a common adaptation to the growing fetus. Lordosis refers to an increased lumbar curve in the spine, which helps to shift the center of gravity forward, supporting the enlarging uterus. This change is necessary to maintain balance and reduce strain on the back muscles as the pregnancy progresses. Increased abdominal muscle tone, posterior neck flexion, and decreased mobility of pelvic joints are not typical physiological changes during pregnancy. Increased abdominal muscle tone is not expected as the abdominal muscles tend to stretch and separate to accommodate the growing fetus. Posterior neck flexion is not a common finding and decreased mobility of pelvic joints is not an expected change and can cause discomfort.

2. A client at 28 weeks of gestation received terbutaline. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Terbutaline is a tocolytic medication that works by relaxing the uterine muscles, leading to weakened uterine contractions. This effect helps to prevent preterm labor. Therefore, the nurse should expect weakened uterine contractions in a client who has received terbutaline at 28 weeks of gestation. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Terbutaline administration would not directly affect the fetal heart rate, enhance fetal lung surfactant production, or cause maternal hypoglycemia.

3. A client who is breastfeeding and has mastitis is receiving teaching from the nurse. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct response is to completely empty each breast at each feeding or use a pump to prevent milk stasis, which can exacerbate mastitis. By ensuring proper drainage of the affected breast, the client can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Choice A is incorrect because limiting feeding time can lead to inadequate drainage, potentially worsening the condition. Choice B is incorrect as it can cause engorgement in the unaffected breast, leading to further complications. Choice D is incorrect as wearing a tight-fitting bra can worsen symptoms by putting pressure on the affected breast, hindering proper drainage and exacerbating mastitis.

4. A client is being cared for 2 hours after a spontaneous vaginal birth and has saturated two perineal pads with blood in a 30-minute period. Which of the following is the priority nursing intervention at this time?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The priority nursing intervention in this situation is to palpate the client's uterine fundus. A boggy uterus that is not well contracted may indicate uterine atony, which can lead to postpartum hemorrhage. Palpating the fundus and massaging it if it is boggy helps to promote contractions and reduce bleeding, making it the most critical intervention to address the potential underlying issue. Assisting the client to a bedpan to urinate, preparing to administer oxytocic medication, or increasing the client's fluid intake are not the immediate priorities in this scenario compared to assessing and addressing the uterine fundus status.

5. A client reports unrelieved episiotomy pain 8 hours following a vaginal birth. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to apply an ice pack to the affected area. Ice packs help reduce swelling, inflammation, and provide pain relief post-episiotomy. Applying heat, as in a hot pack or warm sitz bath, can increase swelling and discomfort. Providing antiseptic solution in a squeeze bottle is not the first-line intervention for managing episiotomy pain, as the priority is pain relief and comfort.

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