A pregnant client is brought to the emergency department by ambulance after her water broke. She is screaming and bearing down with every contraction. Which of the following assessment questions are essential to ask in preparation for the birth and possible newborn resuscitation? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a pregnant client arrives at the hospital and birth is imminent, the nurse should collect a brief, focused history to elicit essential information relevant to potential newborn resuscitation, including: Recent medication or illicit drug use (especially within the last 4 hours): Certain medications and illicit drugs (eg, opioids) may cause respiratory depression in the newborn (Option B). Current pregnancy diagnoses (eg, multiple gestation, placenta previa): Preparation for multiple newborns or high-risk maternal conditions requires more resuscitation equipment and staff (Option C). Color of the amniotic fluid: Meconium-stained fluid may indicate fetal stress or hypoxia during labor, which could require newborn resuscitation after birth (Option D). Expected due date (EDD) or estimated gestational age: A newborn at preterm gestation (<37 weeks gestation) is at risk for respiratory immaturity and may have respiratory distress after birth (Option E). (Option A) When birth is imminent, asking about information that is not immediately pertinent can be frustrating for the client and delay important preparations for the birth. Verifying immunizations is important but it can be delayed until after the client has given birth. Educational objective: When a pregnant client arrives at the hospital and birth is imminent, the nurse should collect a brief history to elicit essential information relevant to potential newborn resuscitation. Identifying clients with recent medication or illicit drug use, multiple gestation or high-risk maternal conditions, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, or preterm gestational age is essential.

A Pregnant Client Is Brought to the Emergency Department by Ambulance