Nursing Elites

1. A client is scheduled for a maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test at 15 weeks of gestation. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this test. What explanation should the nurse provide?

• A. This test screens for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities in the fetus.
• B. It assesses various markers of fetal well-being.
• C. This test identifies an Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus.
• D. It is a screening test for spinal defects in the fetus.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test is performed around 15-18 weeks of gestation to screen for neural tube defects and other developmental abnormalities in the fetus, not to assess fetal lung maturity, markers of fetal well-being, or Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the purpose of the MSAFP test. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the primary goal of this screening test.

2. A client has severe preeclampsia and is receiving magnesium sulfate IV. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify and report as signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity? (Select all that apply)

• A. Respirations less than 12/min
• B. Urinary output less than 25 mL/hr
• C. Decreased level of consciousness
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Signs of magnesium sulfate toxicity include respirations less than 12/min, urinary output less than 25 mL/hr, and decreased level of consciousness. These signs indicate potential overdose of magnesium sulfate and require immediate attention to prevent further complications. Reporting these signs promptly is crucial to ensure the client's safety and well-being. Choice D, 'All of the above,' is the correct answer as all the listed findings are indicative of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Choices A, B, and C individually represent different signs of toxicity, making them incorrect on their own. Therefore, the nurse should be vigilant in identifying and reporting all these signs to prevent adverse outcomes.

3. 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?

• A. Palpate the client's uterine fundus.
• B. Assist the client to a bedpan to urinate.
• C. Prepare to administer oxytocic medication.
• D. Increase the client's fluid intake.

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.

4. A newborn is noted to have secretions bubbling out of the nose and mouth after delivery. What is the nurse's priority action?

• A. Suction the nose with a bulb syringe.
• B. Suction the mouth with a bulb syringe.
• C. Use a suction catheter with low negative pressure.
• D. Turn the newborn on their side.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The priority action for the nurse is to suction the mouth with a bulb syringe. Suctioning the mouth first is crucial to prevent aspiration and ensure the airway is clear, which takes precedence over suctioning the nose. This intervention helps maintain a patent airway and promotes adequate breathing in the newborn. Using a suction catheter with low negative pressure may not be appropriate as the newborn needs a gentle suction method like a bulb syringe. Turning the newborn on their side is important if there is a risk of aspiration, but clearing the mouth of secretions should be the priority to establish a clear airway.

5. A client is in labor, and a nurse observes late decelerations on the electronic fetal monitor. What should the nurse identify as the first action that the registered nurse should take?

• A. Assist the client into the left-lateral position
• B. Apply a fetal scalp electrode
• C. Insert an IV catheter
• D. Perform a vaginal exam

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Late decelerations indicate uteroplacental insufficiency. The initial action should be to assist the client into the left-lateral position to optimize maternal blood flow and oxygenation to the fetus, thereby improving uteroplacental blood flow and fetal oxygenation. This position helps reduce pressure on the vena cava, enhancing blood return to the heart and improving circulation to the placenta. Applying a fetal scalp electrode (Choice B) is not the first action indicated for late decelerations. Inserting an IV catheter (Choice C) and performing a vaginal exam (Choice D) are not primary interventions for addressing late decelerations related to uteroplacental insufficiency.

Similar Questions