Discussion Responses
Write responses to the below discussion answers.
Some additional information that I would obtain from the client would be to ask how long has the pain been going on? what makes it become worst and what relieves the pain? I would also ask if the patient has started any new activities? Some nursing interventions that I would use would be to educate the patient, keep the patient comfortable and try to relieve the pain. Some screenings that should be obtained to determine the risk for preterm labor are pelvic exam, ultrasound, Uterine monitoring and lab tests. Corticosteroids can help promote the baby’s lung maturity. Tocolytics may be used for 48 hours to delay preterm labor to allow corticosteroids to provide the maximum benefit or, if necessary, for the patient to be transported to a hospital that can provide specialized care for the baby.
Preterm labor – diagnosis and treatment – mayo clinic. (n.d.). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preterm-labor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376848
What additional information should the nurse obtain from the client?
The nurse should assess the client and gather her health history information. The nurse should also ask the patient about her GTPAL. She should ask her what prenatal vitamin she is using.
What nursing intervention is most appropriate in this situation?
The nurse can place heating pads on the client’s lower back. Place the patient in a comfortable position. Practice deep breathing exercises.
What screening tests should be obtained to determine the risk for preterm labor?
The fetal fibronectin test is used to rule out preterm labor. It can provide valuable information if you have signs or symptoms of preterm labor(Mayoclinic,2023).
If the client is in preterm labor, what medications would the nurse expect to be ordered, and what are the priorities for the nurse to assess post-administration? (Include dose, side effects, and desired outcomes of the medication).
Terbutaline is in a class of drugs called betamimetics. They help prevent and slow contractions of the uterus and may help delay birth for several hours or days. Before administering, the nurse should assess the clients’ cardiac functions and should not issue to the patient if diabetes or hyperthyroidism is present. The usual dosage administered is 0.25mg. Side effects include but are not limited to a racing heart, restlessness, tremors, and skin flushing.
Reference
Team, T. H. E. (2017, September 21). Treatment of preterm labor: Terbutaline. Healthline. Retrieved January 19, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/preterm-labor-terbutaline#side-effects
