Question

In returning to the hospital floor after a weekend off, the nurse takes over care of a pregnant client who is resting in a darkened room. The client is receiving betamethasone and magnesium sulfate. What could the nurse deduce from those findings?

a. The client is in preterm labor.

b. The client has hypertension.

c. The client has gestational diabetes.

d. The client is at risk for infection.

Answer 1

The nurse can deduce that the client is in preterm labor.

Step-by-step explanation:

Preterm labor refers to the onset of regular uterine contractions leading to cervical changes before the 37th week of pregnancy. A full-term pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks. Preterm labor is a serious concern as it can lead to preterm birth, which may pose health risks for the baby.

From the information provided, the nurse can deduce that the client is in preterm labor. Betamethasone and magnesium sulfate are commonly used medications in preterm labor to help mature the baby's lungs and prevent complications.