Question

A client who is 8 weeks' pregnant comes to the clinic for a prenatal visit. When preparing the client for the physical examination, the nurse should take which action?

1. Have the client empty her bladder before the special examination.
2. Obtain the client's weight first and then measure her height.
3. Take the client's blood pressure after the checkup.
4. Perform a vaginal examination first to assess for any bleeding.

Answer 1

During a prenatal visit for a client who is 8 weeks' pregnant, it is standard procedure for the nurse to have the client empty her bladder before beginning the physical examination.

Step-by-step explanation:

When preparing a client who is 8 weeks' pregnant for a prenatal visit, a nurse should have the client empty her bladder before the physical examination. This is important because a full bladder can be uncomfortable for the patient and can interfere with the ability to conduct an effective abdominal examination. It may also cause distortions in the image obtained during an ultrasound scan. Additionally, emptying the bladder helps prevent any potential for urinary tract infections that could complicate the pregnancy. Following this, obtaining the client's weight and measuring her height can be completed to track maternal health and pregnancy progression. Blood pressure should be taken ahead of the checkup to get a baseline measurement and then monitored throughout the appointment. While vaginal examinations may be part of the prenatal visit, they are not typically performed first and are used to assess specific concerns such as bleeding or to monitor cervical changes closer to term.