A 14-year-old client confides to the school nurse that she is pregnant, likely in the second trimester, and has not had prenatal care. Which of the following topics should the nurse discuss with the client at this time? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pregnant adolescent clients are a unique population because of their increased risk for complications during pregnancy (eg, low birth weight, preterm birth, preeclampsia) and developmental needs. During an initial encounter with a pregnant adolescent, the nurse should discuss the client's emotional response to the pregnancy to build rapport and provide psychosocial support (Option B). Discussing the client's level of family/social support or fear of social discrimination is appropriate because these factors may prevent the client from obtaining prenatal care (Option C). Pregnant adolescents are vulnerable to poverty, dangerous living conditions, exposure to teratogens (eg, tobacco, alcohol, illicit drugs), poor nutritional status, and physical or sexual abuse, which can cause adverse fetal/maternal outcomes. Therefore, discussing these topics openly as soon as possible is appropriate to prevent harm (Option D). (Option A) Discussing adoption planning and parenting is not necessary at this time but should be addressed later in collaboration with a social worker. (Option E) Young adolescents (ie, age <16) are less mature emotionally and developmentally and may resist planning for the future. Education planning may be approached during subsequent encounters, but it is not a priority for maternal and fetal health at this time. Educational objective: Pregnant adolescent clients are at an increased risk for complications during pregnancy. Factors such as emotional response to the pregnancy, family/social support, nutritional status, and substance abuse impact the pregnancy and should be discussed during an initial encounter to establish rapport and prevent harm.

A 14-Year-Old Client Confides to the School Nurse That She