A patient states that she has a difficult time remembering when ...

[kodithompson]

A patient states that she has a difficult time remembering when to resume her triphasic contraceptive pills following her menses. Which alternative plan will the nurse suggest that she discuss with her health care provider?
 
  a. Changing to the 28-day packet
  b. Using the inert pills every other month
  c. Changing her prescription to the mini pill
  d. Calling the health care provider whenever she forgets to get appropriate instruction

Question 2

Which is more likely to be experienced by women taking the mini pill as an oral contraceptive?
 
  a. Ovulation, dysmenorrhea, and breakthrough bleeding
  b. Excessive weight gain and breast tenderness
  c. Increased estrogen-related adverse effects
  d. Difficulty breastfeeding after pregnancy

[karmakat49]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Using the 28-day packet would allow her to continue with the same type of combination oral contraception. The 28-day packet would allow her to continue daily pills and eliminate the need to recall. Using the inert pills on alternate months will alter her menstrual schedule. Changing to the mini pill might not meet her contraceptive needs. It is unnecessary and inappropriate to contact the provider for missed doses.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
The mini pill is made up of progestin, which inhibits ovulation. This form of contraception is an alternative for women particularly susceptible to adverse effects caused by estrogen therapy. Between 30 and 40 of women continue to ovulate with this form of contraception, however, and there is a slightly higher incidence of uterine and tubal pregnancies. Dysmenorrhea, manifested by irregular or infrequent menses and spotting between cycles, is common in women taking the mini pill. The mini pill has a reduced chance for weight gain and breast tenderness, does not contain estrogen, and does not cause difficulty with breastfeeding.

[kodithompson]

TYSM

[Alyson.hiatt@yahoo.com]

Excellent