A woman in her third trimester is complaining of numbness and tingling in her fingers.Which action should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carpal tunnel syndrome is commonly seen in pregnancy and can be caused by either hyperventilation or from nerve compression of the median and ulnar nerves in the arm.If the woman is hyperventilating,the nurse can educate her about conscious control of breathing,which would provide relief quickly and easily.If hyperventilation does not seem to be the causative factor,the nurse can educate her about strategies for symptom control.These methods include maintaining good posture,elevating the hands on pillows when sleeping,wearing a wrist brace,and/or using a thermoskin carpal tunnel glove.Simply reassuring the woman that the condition is temporary does nothing to increase her comfort.A nerve conduction study is not needed at this time,but if the condition persists after childbirth,it could be an option.

A Woman in Her Third Trimester Is Complaining of Numbness