A pregnant client complains that since she has been pregnant, her ...

[tichca]

A pregnant client complains that since she has been pregnant, her nose is always stuffed and she feels like she has a cold. Past medical history is negative for respiratory problems such as hay fever, sinusitis, or other allergies.
 
  What is the most likely cause for the client's presentation?
 
  a. Increased effects of progesterone to maintain the pregnancy
  b. Effects of estrogen on the respiratory tract
  c. Development of allergies as a result of pregnancy because of altered immunity
  d. Increase in fluid consumption during pregnancy leading to overhydration

Question 2

A pregnant client complains of frequent heartburn. The client states that she has never had these symptoms before and wonders why this is occurring now. The best response that the nurse can provide is:
 
  a. examine her dietary intake pattern and tell her to avoid certain foods.
  b. tell her that this is a normal finding during early pregnancy and will resolve as she gets closer to term.
  c. explain to the client that physiologic changes caused by the pregnancy make her more likely to experience these types of symptoms.
  d. refer her to her health care provider for additional testing because this is an abnormal finding.

[cclemon1]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Increasing estrogen levels during pregnancy can affect the respiratory tract passages, leading to increased vascular responses that manifest as coldlike symptoms. Progesterone, as the hormone of pregnancy, maintains the pregnancy and does not have any direct effects on the maternal respiratory passages. Although it is possible for a client to develop allergies based on exposure to antigen triggers, it is not typically associated with pregnancy states. An increase in fluid may lead to potential edema, but it is not associated with coldlike symptoms.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
The presentation of heartburn is a normal abnormal finding that can occur in pregnant woman because of relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter as a result of the physiologic effects of pregnancy. Although foods may contribute to the heartburn, the client is asking why this presentation is occurring, so the nurse should address the cause first. It is independent of gestation. There is no need to refer to the physician at this time because this is a normal abnormal finding. There is no evidence of complications ensuing from this presentation.