Nursing Midstream Urine Specimen Collection

The recommended weight gain during pregnancy for women with a pre-pregnancy BMI of 21 is between 25 to 35 pounds (11.4 to 15.9 kilograms).

To calculate the estimated date of birth (EDB) using Naegele's rule, add 7 days to the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) and then subtract 3 months.

Warfarin, a medication used to prevent blood clots, can interact with oral contraceptives. Clients taking warfarin should avoid taking oral contraceptives.

A board-like abdomen is a sign of abruptio placentae, a serious condition where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall.

To prevent thrombophlebitis in postpartum clients following a Cesarean birth, frequent ambulation is essential.

Large for gestational age (LGA) newborns are at risk for hypoglycemia. Monitoring blood glucose levels is essential.

A clean-catch urine specimen is a urine sample collected in a sterile container after cleaning the genital area. This technique helps to minimize contamination by bacteria.

Ecchymosis, or bruising, can be a sign of birth trauma in newborns, especially those large for gestational age. Checking for ecchymosis is an important part of their assessment.

Start by cleansing the urinary meatus from front to back with antiseptic towelettes. Then, separate the labia with your nondominant hand. Place the specimen container midstream in the flow of urine and secure the cap tightly on the specimen container.

Methotrexate is a medication used to treat an unruptured ectopic pregnancy. It works by stopping the growth of the pregnancy tissue and preventing further complications.

The client needs to be educated on the importance of not elevating the baby's head on a cushion while sleeping. This can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Epidural anesthesia can cause a decrease in blood pressure, leading to hypotension. This can be manifested by tachycardia, which is an increased heart rate.

The newborn who has a blood glucose level of 63 mg/dL needs to be attended to first. Low blood sugar in newborns is a serious concern and requires immediate intervention.

The nurse should perform unbiased teaching, explaining different methods of contraception and their benefits and risks. It's important to allow the client to make an informed decision appropriate for their needs.

During pregnancy, a dark line that appears down the middle of the abdomen is called linea nigra. It is a normal physiological change and not a sign of infection.

The nurse should explain that the client's body is undergoing various changes during pregnancy. These changes are normal and are expected. It's crucial to educate the client about these changes and address their concerns.

Changes in the physical appearance of the skin, such as freckles and darkening of the areolas, that occur during pregnancy. They are typically caused by hormonal fluctuations and are usually temporary.

A surgical procedure often performed in the second trimester to strengthen the cervix and prevent premature birth. It involves placing a stitch around the cervix to keep it closed.

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy often cause these afterpains, which are cramping in the uterus. They are typically more intense after breastfeeding, as the release of oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions.

After birth, breastfeeding often causes the uterus to contract, resulting in cramping or pain in the abdomen. This is a normal occurrence and usually subsides within a few days for most moms.

The nurse's action should be based on the client's specific symptoms and medical history. For example, if the client is experiencing tremors, the nurse should immediately report this to the provider, as this could be a sign of a serious side effect of terbutaline.

When breastfeeding, only the nipple should be in the baby's mouth. The baby should not be sucking on the areola, which can cause discomfort and pain for the mother.

A specific type of skin discoloration that can appear during pregnancy. It typically presents as dark patches on the face, especially around the cheeks and forehead. Often fades after childbirth and can be prevented by using sunscreen.

A medication used to treat preterm labor by relaxing the uterus and slowing down contractions. This provides time for the baby to grow and mature.

During pregnancy, the shoulder harness should be placed over the shoulder and across the chest, not over the gravid uterus. The lap belt should be worn low and snug across the hips, below the belly.

A positive Homans' sign is not expected postpartum, indicating potential complications related to blood clots. It should be reported to the provider.

A history of spontaneous abortion, or miscarriage, can be a risk factor for certain contraceptive methods, including the transdermal patch, and requires further discussion with a healthcare provider.

Low maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) levels are associated with Down syndrome, a genetic disorder. MSAFP is a screening test, not a diagnostic test.

At 12 weeks of gestation, fetal heart tones are best heard above the left iliac crest, as the uterus is positioned higher in early pregnancy.

Left calf tenderness, a possible sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), should be reported to the provider after a cesarean birth, as it could be a complication of the surgery or immobility.

Hyporeflexia, a decreased knee-jerk reflex, is a sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity, a potential adverse effect during preeclampsia treatment and must be reported immediately.

A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device can help manage pain during labor by sending electrical impulses to the nerves. This method can be used alongside other pain management techniques.

A nonstress test is a prenatal test that monitors the baby's heart rate and movement. The client will press a button on a monitor every time they feel the baby move. The test is usually done for 20-30 minutes.

Breast engorgement is a common postpartum experience. Using ice packs, applying lanolin, wearing a supportive bra, and frequent breastfeeding help reduce engorgement and promote comfort.

Newborn screening is a blood test done to detect certain genetic disorders. The heel is the preferred site for the blood sample.

Rh-negative mothers who deliver an Rh-positive baby are at risk for developing Rh antibodies. Rh (D) immune globulin is given to prevent this from happening.

Folic acid is an essential nutrient during pregnancy and is crucial for proper fetal development.

Carboprost is a medication used to control postpartum bleeding. It is administered intramuscularly.

Postpartum bleeding is a common occurrence and is often managed conservatively. However, if the client's blood pressure is increasing, it could indicate a serious complication.

The inner aspect of the newborn's heel is the safest and least painful site for collecting a blood sample. Warming the heel for 5 to 10 minutes can help improve blood flow.

Foul-smelling lochia is a sign of possible infection after childbirth. This discharge is abnormal and indicates the presence of bacteria in the uterus.

Dysuria, or painful urination, is a priority during pregnancy as it could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI). UTIs can harm the baby and require immediate treatment.

Phytonadione (Vitamin K) is given to newborns to prevent bleeding problems due to a lack of clotting factors at birth.

Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to lower blood pressure during pregnancy. The nurse should closely monitor the client's blood pressure for effectiveness.

Decreased skin turgor is a sign of dehydration, especially in a newborn. This means the skin takes longer to return to its normal position after being pinched, indicating fluid loss.

Fetal heart tones can be heard using a Doppler device around 12 weeks of gestation in the area above the left iliac crest.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) have the lowest documented failure rate among contraceptive methods.

Miconazole vaginal suppositories are inserted along the posterior vaginal wall for treatment of vaginal candidiasis. The nurse should insert the suppository approximately 5 cm (2 in) deep.