The nurse is instructing a patient on how to perform kick counts. Which information should the nurse include in the teaching session? (Select all that apply.)
A) Use a clock or timer when performing kick counts.
B) Your bladder should be full before performing kick counts.
C) Notify your health care provider if you have not felt movement in 24 hours.
D) Protocols can provide a structured timetable for concentrating on fetal movements.
E) You should lie on your side, place your hands on the largest part of the abdomen, and concentrate on the number of movements felt.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse should instruct the patient to lie on her side, place her hands on the largest part of her abdomen, and concentrate on fetal movements. She should use a clock or timer and record the number of movements felt during that time. Protocols are not essential; however, they may give the patient a more structured timetable for when to concentrate on fetal movements. The bladder does not need to be full for kick counts; it is better to have the patient empty her bladder before beginning the assessment of fetal movements. Further evaluation is recommended if the patient feels no movements in 12 hours; 24 hours is too long before notifying the health care provider.

The Nurse Is Instructing a Patient on How to Perform