Question

A nurse is teaching a client who is at 13 wks gestation about the treatment of incompetent cervix with cervical cerclage. What statement by the client indicates an understanding of teaching?

a. I should go to the hospital if I think I may be in labor
b. I should expect bright red bleeding while the cerclage is in place
c. I am sad that I won't be able to get pregnant again
d. I can resume having sex as soon as I feel up to it

Answer 1

The correct understanding after a cervical cerclage for an incompetent cervix is to go to the hospital if the client thinks they may be in labor. It's important to clear up any misconceptions about the procedure, including bleeding, sexual activity, and future pregnancies.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client at 13 weeks gestation with an incompetent cervix being treated with cervical cerclage would need to have a clear understanding of post-procedure care and instructions. The statement by the client that indicates an understanding of the teaching is: "I should go to the hospital if I think I may be in labor". This understanding is crucial as premature contractions may indicate the onset of preterm labor, which could require medical intervention, and the presence of the cervical cerclage can complicate matters. It is normal to resume sexual activities after a cerclage, but it is often advised to wait for a specified period as determined by the healthcare provider, typically until after a follow-up exam. Clients should not expect bright red bleeding while the cerclage is in place, and if it occurs, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Lastly, a successful cervical cerclage does not mean that future pregnancies are not possible; thus, feeling sad about not being able to get pregnant again would be a misunderstanding of the procedure.