Author Question: A pregnant patient slipped and fell on an icy sidewalk a few weeks ago. During labor, the patient is ... (Read 59 times)

Anajune7 · **on:** Jun 27, 2018

A pregnant patient slipped and fell on an icy sidewalk a few weeks ago. During labor, the patient is experiencing extreme pain at the region of the symphysis pubis. What should be done to help this patient?

A) Elevate the legs.
B) Position on the side.
C) Apply heat to the region.
D) Provide additional pain medication.

Question 2

The nurse instructs a pregnant patient on ways to reduce unintentional injuries while pregnant. Which patient statement indicates that teaching has been effective?

A) I should clean a puncture wound with cold water..
B) I should wear a seat belt when in a motor vehicle at all times..
C) I should lie down and rest if someone kicks or punches my abdomen..
D) I should flush an animal bite with warm water and then wash with soap..

ilianabrrr · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 27, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
Feedback:
The laxness of body cartilage may cause separation of the symphysis pubis if a pregnant patient falls with the legs outspread. A suture separation this way is very painful, especially on walking or turning. If separation of the symphysis pubis is still present at the time of birth, this can make labor very painful, especially during the pelvic division of labor as the fetus is pushed through the pelvic ring. The patient may need additional analgesia at this time. Elevating the legs, positioning on the side, or applying heat to the region will not help with the pain from the injury.

Answer to Question 2

B
Feedback:
Pregnancy counseling should include education about ways to avoid unintentional injuries such as using automobile seat belts. Puncture wounds need to be evaluated for depth. The patient might need a tetanus injection after this type of injury. If someone punches or kicks the pregnant patient's abdomen, the patient needs to be evaluated for damage to the uterus, bladder, or placenta. If the pregnant patient receives an animal bite, it needs to be evaluated and determined if the animal was rabid. If so, the patient needs rabies inoculations, which are safe to administer during pregnancy.