You are caring for a woman who is 32 weeks pregnant. While assessing her breathing, you notice that her rib cage expands visibly with each breath and that her tidal volume appears to be deep. You recognize:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During pregnancy, there are several changes in the respiratory system due to hormonal and mechanical factors. Increased tidal volume and rib cage expansion are a normal adaptation to the increased oxygen demand of the growing fetus. It is important to monitor respiratory function in pregnant women, but these changes alone do not indicate a severe respiratory condition, obstructive shock, or an obstetrical emergency.

You Are Caring for a Woman Who Is 32 Weeks