Gastrointestinal Changes in pregnancy
Total Questions : 5
Showing 5 questions, Sign in for moreA nurse is teaching a pregnant client about the gastrointestinal changes that occur during pregnancy.
The nurse should explain that the increased progesterone levels cause which of the following effects?
Explanation
Decreased gastric motility.This is because the hormone progesterone, which causes smooth muscle relaxation, often causes relaxation and slowing of digestion in the stomach and the small and large intestines.
This can lead to constipation and delayed gastric emptying.
Choice B is wrong because progesterone does not increase gastric acid secretion.In fact, progesterone may decrease acid secretion by inhibiting histamine release.
Choice C is wrong because progesterone does decrease lower esophageal sphincter tone, but this is not a direct effect on the gastrointestinal system.Rather, it is a result of the growing uterus pushing the stomach upward and causing reflux.
Choice D is wrong because progesterone does not increase intestinal absorption.In fact, progesterone may decrease intestinal absorption by reducing intestinal blood flow and slowing down transit time.
A nurse is assessing a pregnant client who reports nausea and vomiting in the morning.
The nurse should recognize that this is most likely due to which of the following factors?
Explanation
Elevated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels.Nausea and vomiting in the morning are common symptoms of early pregnancy and are most likely due to the high levels of hCG hormone produced by the placenta.hCG levels peak around 8 to 10 weeks of gestation and then decline gradually.
Choice B is wrong because decreased gastric emptying time is not a cause of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but rather a consequence of hormonal changes and increased pressure on the stomach by the growing uterus.
Choice C is wrong because increased peristalsis of the colon is not related to nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but rather to constipation, which is another common symptom of pregnancy due to hormonal changes and reduced physical activity.
Choice D is wrong because decreased bile production is not a factor in nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, but rather a possible cause of gallstones, which are more common in pregnant women due to hormonal changes and increased cholesterol levels.
A nurse is caring for a pregnant client who has constipation.
The nurse should recommend which of the following interventions to promote bowel elimination?
Explanation
Increasing fluid intake to at least 2 L per day can help prevent constipation by keeping stool soft and easy to pass.Fluids can include water, clear soups, teas, and fruit or vegetable juices.
Choice B is wrong because limiting intake of high-fiber foods can worsen constipation.High-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans can increase the number of stools and facilitate their passage through the intestines.Adults should eat between 28 and 34 grams of fiber each day.
Choice C is wrong because taking a daily iron supplement can cause constipation and hard, black stools.Iron can make it harder for bacteria in the bowel to break down food.
Prenatal vitamins that are high in iron may also contribute to constipation.If this is the case, a doctor may recommend trying a vitamin that contains less iron.
Choice D is wrong because avoiding physical activity can lead to constipation.Being active helps stool move through the intestines.
Getting regular exercise, with a doctor’s approval, can help relieve constipation.If exercising is not possible, try to fit in a gentle walk each day.
A nurse is providing dietary education to a pregnant client who has heartburn.
The nurse should instruct the client to avoid which of the following foods?
Explanation
Chocolate.Chocolate is one of the foods that can cause heartburn by increasing the acid production in your stomach.It also contains caffeine and theobromine, which can relax the valve between your esophagus and stomach and allow acid to escape up to your throat.
Choice A.Milk is wrong because milk can help neutralize stomach acid and ease heartburn symptoms.
Choice B.Bananas is wrong because bananas are low in acid and can act as a natural antacid.
Choice D.Rice is wrong because rice is a bland and starchy food that can help absorb excess stomach acid and prevent heartburn.
Some other foods to avoid for heartburn during pregnancy are citrus fruits, tomato-based foods, spicy foods, fried and fatty foods, carbonated beverages, and alcohol.
A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a pregnant client who has hyperemesis gravidarum.
The nurse should expect to find which of the following findings?
Explanation
Hypokalemia.Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration, electrolyte disturbances, ketosis, and weight loss.Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte abnormality in HG due to excessive vomiting and poor oral intake.Hypokalemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and renal impairment.
Choice A is wrong because metabolic acidosis is not a typical finding in HG.Metabolic alkalosis is more likely due to loss of gastric acid from vomiting.
Choice C is wrong because hyperglycemia is not associated with HG.Hyperglycemia may occur in gestational diabetes or pregestational diabetes, which are risk factors for HG but not direct causes.
Choice D is wrong because hyponatremia is not a common complication of HG.Hyponatremia may occur in severe cases of dehydration or if excessive intravenous fluids are given without adequate sodium replacement.
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