Nursing Elites

1. During a vaginal exam on a client in labor who reports severe pressure and pain in the lower back, a nurse notes that the fetal head is in a posterior position. Which of the following is the best nonpharmacological intervention for the nurse to perform to relieve the client's discomfort?

• A. Back rub
• B. Counter-pressure
• C. Playing music
• D. Foot massage

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In cases where the fetus is in a posterior position causing severe pressure and pain in the lower back during labor, applying counter-pressure is the most effective nonpharmacological intervention. Counter-pressure helps lift the fetal head off the spinal nerve, offering relief to the client. This technique is evidence-based and recommended to alleviate discomfort associated with a posterior fetal position. Choices A, C, and D are not as effective in this situation. While a back rub or playing music may provide some comfort, they do not directly address the issue caused by the fetal head's position. Similarly, a foot massage may offer relaxation but may not significantly relieve the specific discomfort arising from the posterior fetal position and the associated lower back pain.

2. When educating a pregnant client about potential complications, which manifestation should the nurse emphasize reporting to the provider promptly?

• A. Vaginal bleeding
• B. Swelling of the ankles
• C. Heartburn after eating
• D. Lightheadedness when lying on back

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is a concerning sign that could indicate serious complications like miscarriage or placental issues. Prompt reporting to the healthcare provider is crucial for timely evaluation and management to ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Swelling of the ankles (choice B), heartburn after eating (choice C), and lightheadedness when lying on the back (choice D) are common discomforts during pregnancy but are not typically associated with serious complications that require immediate attention.

3. A client in a prenatal clinic is pregnant and experiencing episodes of maternal hypotension. The client asks the nurse what causes these episodes. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

• A. This is due to an increase in blood volume.
• B. This is due to pressure from the uterus on the diaphragm.
• C. This is due to the weight of the uterus on the vena cava.
• D. This is due to increased cardiac output.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Maternal hypotension during pregnancy is often caused by the weight of the uterus pressing on the vena cava when the client is lying on her back, which reduces blood flow to the heart. This compression can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and subsequent symptoms of hypotension. Choice A is incorrect because an increase in blood volume typically leads to increased blood pressure rather than hypotension. Choice B is incorrect as pressure from the uterus on the diaphragm is not a common cause of maternal hypotension. Choice D is incorrect because increased cardiac output would not directly cause maternal hypotension.

4. A client has postpartum psychosis. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?

• A. Reinforce the importance of taking antipsychotics as prescribed
• B. Ask the client if they have thoughts of harming themselves or their infant
• C. Monitor the infant for signs of failure to thrive
• D. Check the client's medical record for a history of bipolar disorder

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a situation where a client has postpartum psychosis, the priority action for the nurse is to ask the client if they have thoughts of harming themselves or their infant. This is crucial to assess the risk of harm and ensure the safety of the client and the infant. While reinforcing the importance of taking antipsychotics as prescribed is essential for treatment, safety concerns take precedence. Monitoring the infant for signs of failure to thrive is important for the infant's well-being but is not the priority when the immediate safety of the client and infant is at risk. Checking the client's medical record for a history of bipolar disorder is relevant for understanding the client's medical history but is not the priority when addressing current safety concerns.

5. A client with a BMI of 26.5 is seeking advice on weight gain during pregnancy at the first prenatal visit. Which of the following responses should the nurse provide?

• A. It would be best if you gained about 11 to 20 pounds.
• B. The recommendation for you is about 15 to 25 pounds.
• C. A gain of about 25 to 35 pounds is recommended for you.
• D. A gain of about 1 pound per week is the best pattern for you.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: For a client with a BMI of 26.5 (overweight), the recommended weight gain during pregnancy is 15 to 25 pounds. This range helps promote a healthy pregnancy outcome and reduces the risk of complications associated with excessive weight gain. Option A suggests a lower weight gain range, which may not be adequate for a client with a BMI of 26.5. Option C indicates a higher weight gain range, which could lead to complications for an overweight individual. Option D provides a general guideline for weight gain without considering the client's BMI, which is not personalized advice. Therefore, the most appropriate response is option B, offering a suitable weight gain recommendation for the client's BMI to support a healthy pregnancy journey.

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