Nursing Elites

1. A client who is at 40 weeks gestation and in active labor has 6 cm of cervical dilation and 100% cervical effacement. The client's blood pressure reading is 82/52 mm Hg. Which of the following nursing interventions should the nurse perform?

• A. Prepare for a cesarean birth.
• B. Assist the client to an upright position.
• C. Prepare for an immediate vaginal delivery.
• D. Assist the client to turn onto her side.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Turning the client onto her side is the appropriate nursing intervention in this scenario. This position can help improve blood pressure by enhancing venous return, which may aid in increasing perfusion to vital organs. It can also alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, promoting better circulation and supporting blood pressure stabilization during labor. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. A cesarean birth is not indicated based on the information provided. Assisting the client to an upright position may worsen her blood pressure due to decreased venous return. Lastly, there is no indication for an immediate vaginal delivery solely based on the client's blood pressure reading.

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

• A. Apply an ice pack to the affected area.
• B. Offer a warm sitz bath.
• C. Provide a squeeze bottle of antiseptic solution.
• D. Place a hot pack on the perineum.

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.

3. When calculating the Apgar score of a newborn at 1 minute after delivery, which of the following findings would result in a score of 6?

• A. 4
• B. 5
• C. 6
• D. 7

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The Apgar score is calculated based on five parameters: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color. In this case, the newborn's findings at 1 minute after delivery indicate a heart rate >100/min (2 points), slow, weak cry (1 point), some flexion of extremities (1 point), grimace in response to suctioning (1 point), and body pink with blue extremities (1 point). Adding these points together results in a total Apgar score of 6, reflecting the newborn's initial assessment for their overall well-being. Choice A (4) is too low based on the given findings, while Choice B (5) is also lower than the correct score of 6. Choice D (7) is too high as it would require additional findings to reach that score.

4. When assessing newborn reflexes, what action should be taken to elicit the Moro reflex?

• A. Perform a sharp hand clap near the infant.
• B. Hold the newborn vertically allowing one foot to touch the table surface.
• C. Place a finger at the base of the newborn's toes.
• D. Turn the newborn's head quickly to one side.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Perform a sharp hand clap near the infant. The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is elicited by a sudden stimuli such as a sharp hand clap near the infant. This reflex is characterized by the infant's arms extending and then flexing with a distinctive 'startle' motion. It is a normal and expected reflex in newborns, typically disappearing by 3-6 months of age. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not elicit the Moro reflex; holding the newborn vertically (choice B) or placing a finger at the base of the newborn's toes (choice C) are associated with other reflexes, while turning the newborn's head quickly to one side (choice D) is related to the tonic neck reflex.

5. 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.

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