when caring for a pregnant woman with cardiac problems the nurse must be alert for the signs and symptoms of cardiac decompensation which critical fin
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI LPN

HESI Maternity 55 Questions

1. When caring for a pregnant woman with cardiac problems, the nurse must be alert for the signs and symptoms of cardiac decompensation. Which critical findings would the nurse find on assessment of the client experiencing this condition?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In pregnant women with cardiac problems, signs of cardiac decompensation include dyspnea, crackles, an irregular, weak, and rapid pulse, rapid respirations, a moist and frequent cough, generalized edema, increasing fatigue, and cyanosis of the lips and nailbeds. Choice A is incorrect as a regular heart rate and hypertension are not typically associated with cardiac decompensation. Choice B is incorrect as increased urinary output and dry cough are not indicative of cardiac decompensation, only tachycardia is. Choice C is incorrect as bradycardia and hypertension are not typically seen in cardiac decompensation; dyspnea is a critical sign instead.

2. What should be the primary focus of nursing care in the transitional phase of labor for a client who anticipates an unmedicated delivery?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During the transitional phase of labor, which is the most intense phase, the primary focus of nursing care for a client who anticipates an unmedicated delivery should be assisting her to maintain control. This is essential to help her manage the intense pain and anxiety associated with this phase without the use of medication. Assessing the strength of uterine contractions (Choice A) is important but not the primary focus during the transitional phase. Re-evaluating the need for medication (Choice B) is not applicable as the client anticipates an unmedicated delivery. Reminding her to push 3 times with each contraction (Choice C) is more related to the pushing stage of labor and not the transitional phase.

3. If an individual receives a recessive gene for eye color from both parents, the:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an individual inherits a recessive gene for eye color from both parents, the recessive trait will be expressed in the child. This is because having two copies of the recessive gene overrides the presence of any dominant gene. Choice A is incorrect because the expression of the trait is determined by the genetic makeup, not the gender of the child. Choice C is incorrect as the expression of the recessive trait is certain when both parents pass on the recessive gene, but it does not mean that all offspring will express the trait. Choice D is incorrect because if both parents provide a recessive gene, the dominant trait will not be expressed in the child, but it does not mean it will be suppressed; rather, the recessive trait will be expressed.

4. According to a study conducted in 2013 by Fellman, what affects the chances of having twins?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. According to the study by Fellman in 2013, the chances of having twins actually increase with parental age. Choice A is incorrect as the study does not specify a younger age for conceiving to increase the chances of twins. Choice C is incorrect as the frequency of intercourse before conception is not a highlighted factor in the study. Choice D is also incorrect as the study does not discuss the impact of fertility drugs on the likelihood of having twins.

5. Which procedure is used to detect neural tube defects such as spina bifida and certain chromosomal abnormalities?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) assay. This blood test measures the level of AFP in a pregnant woman's blood, aiding in the detection of neural tube defects and certain chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Choice A, artificial insemination, is a method used to facilitate fertilization and is not related to detecting fetal abnormalities. Choice B, amniocentesis, involves collecting amniotic fluid for genetic testing, not directly measuring AFP levels. Choice C, endometriosis, is a medical condition involving abnormal tissue growth and is not a procedure for detecting fetal abnormalities. Therefore, the Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) assay is the most appropriate option for detecting neural tube defects such as spina bifida and certain chromosomal abnormalities.

Similar Questions

Which drug was marketed in the 1960s to pregnant women and caused birth defects such as missing or stunted limbs in infants?
A client comes to the clinic for her first prenatal visit and reports that July 10 was the first day of her last menstrual period. Using Nagele’s Rule, the nurse calculates the estimated date of birth for the client to be _________.
Rh incompatibility occurs when an Rh-negative woman is carrying an Rh-positive fetus.
When both alleles' effects are shown, there is said to be:
Four clients at full term present to the labor and delivery unit at the same time. Which client should a nurse assess first?

Access More Features

HESI LPN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All HESI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

HESI LPN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All HESI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses