The nurse is verifying the medical history of a client who is admitted for a scheduled labor induction. Which client statement should prompt the nurse to request further evaluation for a primary cesarean birth from the health care provider?

Question

The nurse is verifying the medical history of a client who is admitted for a scheduled labor induction.  Which client statement should prompt the nurse to request further evaluation for a primary cesarean birth from the health care provider?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Genital herpes, an incurable sexually transmitted infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV), is characterized by painful, vesicular lesions that form ulcers that crust over. Clients with a history of genital herpes are prescribed antivirals (eg, acyclovir) around 36 weeks gestation to prevent outbreaks prior to labor. Clients with active genital herpes infections (eg, lesions) or prodromal symptoms (eg, pain, burning, tingling) require a cesarean birth to prevent transmission to the fetus (ie, neonatal HSV infection). The nurse should notify the health care provider of the client's symptoms and request further evaluation to help facilitate an appropriate plan of care (eg, cesarean birth) (Option C). (Option A) Often, the use of a vacuum or forceps during birth is due to factors that do not influence future births (eg, abnormal fetal heart rate, maternal exhaustion). Therefore, a history of a vacuum- or forceps-assisted birth is not an indication for cesarean birth in subsequent pregnancies. (Options B and D) Most cardiac diseases (eg, atrial septal defect) and a history of venous thrombus are not indications for cesarean birth; these conditions increase the risk of complications during and following a cesarean birth because of the blood loss and immobility associated with surgery. Educational objective: Clients with an active genital herpes infection or prodromal symptoms require further evaluation for a cesarean birth to prevent infection of the fetus. History of a vacuum-assisted birth, an asymptomatic atrial septal defect, and venous thrombus are not indications for cesarean birth.

The Nurse Is Verifying the Medical History of a Client