Author Question: A 32-year-old woman now at 32 weeks' gestation is complaining of right-sided sharp abdominal pain. ... (Read 98 times)

colton · **on:** Jun 28, 2018

A 32-year-old woman now at 32 weeks' gestation is complaining of right-sided sharp abdominal pain. The patient is examined by the clinic nurse and given information about abdominal discomfort in pregnancy.

She is also instructed to seek immediate attention if she (select all that apply):
a. Has heartburn
b. Has chills or a fever
c. Feels decreased fetal movements
d. Has increased abdominal pain

Question 2

The perinatal nurse teaches the student nurse about the physiological changes in pregnancy that most often contribute to the increased incidence of urinary tract infections. These changes include (select all that apply):

a. Relaxation of the smooth muscle of the urinary sphincter
b. Relaxation of the smooth muscle of the bladder
c. Inadequate emptying of the bladder
d. Increased incidence of bacteriuria

mochi09 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 28, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: b, c, d
Heartburn is a common discomfort throughout pregnancy. Because the appendix is pushed upward and posterior by the gravid uterus, the typical location of pain is not a reliable indicator for a ruptured appendix during pregnancy. The pain should gradually subside, but if it persists or is accompanied by fever, a change in bowel habits, or decreased fetal movement, the patient should promptly contact her medical provider.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: a, b, c, d
Ascension of bacteria into the bladder can cause asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB), or urinary tract infections (UTIs). These infections occur more frequently in pregnancy due to relaxation of the smooth muscle of the bladder and urinary sphincter and inadequate emptying of the bladder, changes that allow bacterial ascent into the bladder.