A pregnant woman has been brought to the emergency department by the rescue squad with symptoms of heat exhaustion after competing in an outdoor race on a hot day.Before discharge,the nurse teaches about appropriate exercise during pregnancy.The husband asks if the woman's having heat exhaustion will harm the baby.Which response by the nurse is most accurate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fetus is unable to reduce body temperature through perspiration or other means and instead must rely on the mother's body for temperature regulation.Possible complications of maternal hyperthermia include spontaneous abortion,preterm labor,and fetal distress.The nurse should educate the couple about exercise that won't increase the maternal temperature too much.Complications are possible,not definite; the baby being in a fluid environment does not regulate its temperature,and women who are pregnant can engage in aerobic activity following safety guidelines.

A Pregnant Woman Has Been Brought to the Emergency Department