Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the normal length of the uterus at around 20 weeks of pregnancy?
What is the normal length of the uterus at around 20 weeks of pregnancy?
What physiological change occurs to the vaginal walls during pregnancy?
What physiological change occurs to the vaginal walls during pregnancy?
Which sign is considered a presumptive sign of pregnancy?
Which sign is considered a presumptive sign of pregnancy?
Which of the following is classified as a probable sign of pregnancy?
Which of the following is classified as a probable sign of pregnancy?
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What is a common cardiovascular physiological change during pregnancy?
What is a common cardiovascular physiological change during pregnancy?
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Which hormone is primarily responsible for suppressing FSH during early stages of pregnancy?
Which hormone is primarily responsible for suppressing FSH during early stages of pregnancy?
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How should pregnant individuals manage nighttime dyspnea effectively?
How should pregnant individuals manage nighttime dyspnea effectively?
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What is a common nursing intervention for addressing fluid retention in lower extremities during pregnancy?
What is a common nursing intervention for addressing fluid retention in lower extremities during pregnancy?
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What is an appropriate recommendation for pregnant individuals to relieve pressure on cerebral arteries?
What is an appropriate recommendation for pregnant individuals to relieve pressure on cerebral arteries?
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When should nursing interventions for uterine contractions be initiated?
When should nursing interventions for uterine contractions be initiated?
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What is NOT advised to enhance lower extremity circulation during pregnancy?
What is NOT advised to enhance lower extremity circulation during pregnancy?
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What dietary change is recommended to manage slowed peristalsis during pregnancy?
What dietary change is recommended to manage slowed peristalsis during pregnancy?
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Which nursing intervention is most appropriate for managing leg discomfort caused by a distended uterus?
Which nursing intervention is most appropriate for managing leg discomfort caused by a distended uterus?
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What is an effective strategy for managing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?
What is an effective strategy for managing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?
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How should a nurse advise a patient to relieve pressure on the rectal veins due to a growing uterus?
How should a nurse advise a patient to relieve pressure on the rectal veins due to a growing uterus?
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Which intervention should be avoided when addressing fluid intake in a pregnant patient experiencing discomfort?
Which intervention should be avoided when addressing fluid intake in a pregnant patient experiencing discomfort?
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Study Notes
Uterine Changes
- The uterus normally measures approximately 12 cm at 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- The uterine wall is about 1 cm thick at the start of pregnancy.
Vaginal Changes
- During pregnancy, the vaginal walls experience increased pH (around 7.5), increased vascularity, and increased thickness.
Signs of Pregnancy
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Presumptive signs are subjective and may be caused by other conditions.
- Fatigue is an example of a presumptive sign.
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Probable signs are objective but not definitive.
- Ballottement - a feeling of a floating object when the examiner taps the uterus - is classified as a probable sign.
Breast Changes
- Increased breast tissue stimulation during pregnancy can lead to discomfort.
- Supportive bras are recommended to relieve discomfort.
Cardiovascular Changes
- Common cardiovascular changes during pregnancy include increased heart rate and blood volume.
Hormones
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) plays a primary role in suppressing Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) during early pregnancy.
Fluid Retention
- Elevating legs for 30 minutes twice a day can help manage fluid retention in the lower extremities.
Back Pain
- A left side-lying position is recommended to relieve backache.
Dyspnea
- Sleeping with the head and chest elevated is effective for managing nighttime dyspnea.
Other Concerns
- Excessive fluid retention: Nursing interventions should be initiated if it causes shortness of breath.
- Leg discomfort: A distended uterus can cause leg discomfort. Encourage lying with legs elevated to alleviate this.
- Pressure on rectal veins: A knee-chest position can help relieve pressure on rectal veins due to the growing uterus.
- Nausea and vomiting: Eating dry crackers or toast before getting out of bed is an effective strategy for managing nausea and vomiting.
- Slowed peristalsis: Increasing fiber intake can help manage slowed peristalsis.
- Increased metabolic requirements: Encourage rest and sleep to address increased metabolic demand.
- Pooling of blood in the lower extremities: Avoid sitting with legs crossed to prevent pooling of blood.
Exercise and Posture
- Pelvic rocking or tilting exercises are recommended to maintain balance.
- Practice relaxation techniques to manage tension and reduce pressure on cerebral arteries.
Uterine Contractions
- Nursing interventions should be initiated for uterine contractions from the 8th week of pregnancy.
Circulation
- Avoid constrictive clothing and encourage leg elevation to enhance lower extremity circulation.
Dietary Recommendations
- Increase the amount of fiber in the diet to help with slowed peristalsis.
Important Considerations
- Encourage frequent hydration, especially with electrolyte drinks, to address fluid intake concerns.
- Avoid restricting fluid intake.
- Avoid long periods of standing and wear supportive shoes to prevent uncomfortable pressure on the legs.
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