Question

A woman has chosen the calendar method of conception control. What would be most important for the nurse to do during the assessment process?

A - Examine skin pigmentation and hair texture for hormonal changes
B -Determine the client's weight gain and loss pattern for the previous year
C -Explore the client's previous experiences with conception control
D - Obtain a history of menstrual cycle lengths for the past 6 to 12 months

Answer 1

The crucial step for the nurse aiding a woman using the calendar method of conception control is to obtain a detailed history of her menstrual cycle lengths over the past 6 to 12 months to determine the pattern and timing of ovulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most important action for the nurse to take during the assessment process for a woman who has chosen the calendar method of conception control is D - Obtain a history of menstrual cycle lengths for the past 6 to 12 months. This information is crucial because the calendar method relies on understanding the pattern of the woman's menstrual cycle to predict fertile and infertile days. Knowing the lengths of past menstrual cycles can help discern the regularity and timing of ovulation, which is necessary for effective use of this natural family planning method.

Tracking the basal body temperature (BBT) and the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) can also assist in identifying ovulation periods and enhance the effectiveness of the calendar method. A thorough menstrual history allows the nurse to educate the client on how to identify the days when she is most likely to conceive and to avoid sexual intercourse during that time if conception control is the goal.

It is less important to examine skin pigmentation and hair texture for hormonal changes, determine weight gain and loss patterns, or explore previous experiences with conception control in the initial assessment for the calendar method.