Samuel Merrit University Oaklands Hesi Maternity (Labor and Delivery)
Samuel Merrit University Oaklands Hesi Maternity (Labor and Delivery) ( 44 Questions)
During a routine first trimester prenatal exam, a pregnant client tells the nurse that she has noticed an increase in vaginal discharge that is white, thin, and watery. Which action should the nurse implement?
Notify the healthcare provider of the complaint: While it's important for the healthcare provider to be aware of any changes or symptoms the client is experiencing, the described discharge is commonly associated with normal physiological changes in pregnancy.
Recommend an over-the-counter yeast medication: The characteristics of the discharge described (white, thin, and watery) are not typical of a yeast infection. Using over-the-counter medications without proper assessment can lead to unnecessary treatment.
Inform her that this is a normal physiological change: This is the most appropriate action. Increased vaginal discharge, often described as leukorrhea, is a common and normal change during pregnancy. It's generally thin, white, and watery.
Prepare the client for a sterile speculum exam: A sterile speculum exam may be indicated if there are other concerning symptoms or if the discharge changes in color, consistency, or if there is associated itching or foul odor. However, based on the information provided, it's not the first-line action.
A. Notify the healthcare provider of the complaint: While it's important for the healthcare provider to be aware of any changes or symptoms the client is experiencing, the described discharge is commonly associated with normal physiological changes in pregnancy.
B. Recommend an over-the-counter yeast medication: The characteristics of the discharge described (white, thin, and watery) are not typical of a yeast infection. Using over-the-counter medications without proper assessment can lead to unnecessary treatment.
C. Inform her that this is a normal physiological change: This is the most appropriate action. Increased vaginal discharge, often described as leukorrhea, is a common and normal change during pregnancy. It's generally thin, white, and watery.
D. Prepare the client for a sterile speculum exam: A sterile speculum exam may be indicated if there are other concerning symptoms or if the discharge changes in color, consistency, or if there is associated itching or foul odor. However, based on the information provided, it's not the first-line action.