Nursing Elites

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

• A. Gradual lordosis
• B. Increased abdominal muscle tone
• C. Posterior neck flexion
• D. Decreased mobility of pelvic joints

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 is being educated by a healthcare provider about the changes she should expect when planning to become pregnant. Identify the correct sequence of maternal changes. A. Amenorrhea B.Lightening C. Goodell's sign D. Quickening

• A. A,B,C,D
• B. D,B,A,C
• C. A,D,B,C
• D. A,C,D,B

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct sequence of maternal changes during pregnancy is as follows: Amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods), Goodell's sign (softening of the cervix), Quickening (first fetal movements felt by the mother), and Lightening (baby descending into the pelvis). These changes occur at different stages of pregnancy and are important indicators of fetal development and maternal adaptation. Choice A is correct as it is the initial change indicating possible pregnancy. Choices B, C, and D follow in the correct order of occurrence during pregnancy. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not follow the correct sequence of maternal changes.

3. A nurse in a health clinic is reinforcing teaching about contraceptive use with a group of clients. Which of the following client statements demonstrates understanding?

• A. Using a water-soluble lubricant with condoms can help prevent breakage and ensure effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and STIs.
• B. A diaphragm should be removed 2 hours after intercourse.
• C. Oral contraceptives can worsen a case of acne.
• D. A contraceptive patch is replaced once a month.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because using a water-soluble lubricant with condoms can help prevent breakage and ensure effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This statement demonstrates the client's understanding of the importance of proper condom use to maximize protection. Choice B is incorrect because a diaphragm should be left in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse to ensure contraceptive effectiveness. Choice C is incorrect as oral contraceptives are known to improve acne in some cases. Choice D is incorrect because a contraceptive patch is typically replaced weekly, not monthly.

4. A client is being discharged after childbirth. At 4 weeks postpartum, the client should contact the provider for which of the following client findings?

• A. Scant, non-odorous white vaginal discharge
• B. Uterine cramping during breastfeeding
• C. Sore nipple with cracks and fissures
• D. Decreased response with sexual activity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sore nipples with cracks and fissures should be reported to the provider as this can indicate improper breastfeeding techniques or infection, which requires medical evaluation and intervention to prevent further complications such as mastitis or decreased milk supply. Scant, non-odorous white vaginal discharge is a normal finding postpartum. Uterine cramping during breastfeeding is also common due to oxytocin release. Decreased response with sexual activity may be expected at 4 weeks postpartum due to hormonal changes and fatigue, but it is not typically a concern that needs immediate medical attention.

5. 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.

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