Which obstetric or medical complications should the nurse be alert for while providing care to a pregnant patient with diabetes mellitus?

perform exercises with a partner,

exercise, eat meals and take insulin at the same time every day,

and if contractions occur - stop exercising, drink 2-3 glasses of water and lie down on her side for an hour

When a pregnant woman with diabetes experiences hypoglycemia while hospitalized, what should the nurse have the woman do?
1

Eat a candy bar.
2

Eat 5 or 6 hard candies or drink 8 oz of milk.
3

Drink 4 oz of orange juice followed by 8 oz of milk.
4

Drink 8 oz of orange juice with 2 teaspoons of sugar added.

Eat 5 or 6 hard candies or drink 8 oz of milk.

Crackers provide carbohydrates in the form of polysaccharides. A candy bar provides only monosaccharides. Milk is a disaccharide and orange juice is a monosaccharide. This will provide an increase in blood sugar but will not sustain the level. Orange juice and sugar will increase the blood sugar, but not provide a slow-burning carbohydrate to sustain the blood sugar.

A pregnant woman has maternal phenylketonuria (PKU) and is interested in whether or not she will be able to breastfeed her baby. Which statement made by the nurse indicates accurate information?
1

The client can breastfeed the baby as long as she continues to maintain a PKU-restricted diet.
2

The client should alternate breastfeedings with bottle feedings in order to reduce PKU levels provided to the baby.
3

The client should be advised to not breastfeed the infant, because her breast milk will contain large amounts of phenylalanine
4

The client can breasteed for the first three months without any untoward effects on the infant.

The client should be advised to not breastfeed the infant, because her breast milk will contain large amounts of phenylalanine

Breastfeeding is not advised for a client who has maternal PKU, because phenylalanine levels will be high in the client's breast milk. Dietary restriction will not limit the amount of this substance in breast milk. Alternating feeding sources is not advised.

The nurse is teaching a client diagnosed with phenylketonuria (PKU) about foods to be avoided in the daily diet. Which foods can have an adverse effect on the mother and fetus? Select all that apply.
1

Milk
2

Eggs
3

Nuts
4

Fruits
5

Vegetables

Milk
Eggs
Nuts

A client diagnosed with PKU must avoid milk, eggs, and nuts in her diet before conception and throughout the pregnancy. The client must have a modified diet that excludes all high-protein foods. The client lacks the enzyme phenylalanine hydrolase; this lack impairs her body's ability to metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, found in all protein foods. Most fruits and vegetables contain very little or no proteins; the client may include these in her diet.

The nurse is caring for a diabetic client who is pregnant. What does the nurse instruct the client about self-care during illness? Select all that apply.

Drink as much fluid as possible.

Obtain as much rest as possible

Check your blood glucose levels at regular intervals.

The nurse should teach the client to drink as much fluid as possible to prevent dehydration. The client should get plenty of rest to speed up recovery from illness. Blood glucose levels should be monitored at regular intervals as a precautionary measure to identify hypoglycemia. The client should be taught to take insulin as per her regular schedule even if her appetite is less than normal, because insulin requirements increase during illness. The client should seek emergency treatment as soon as her glucose level exceeds 200 mg/dl.

What are the complications associated with polyhydramnios? Select all that apply.
1

Ketoacidosis
2

Placental abruption
3

Uterine dysfunction
4

Gestational diabetes
5

Postpartum hemorrhage

Placental abruption

Uterine dysfunction
Postpartum hemorrhage

Polyhydramnios is a condition in which the amniotic fluid index becomes greater than 25 cm. An increase in the amniotic fluid may lead to placental abruption, which needs immediate intervention. This condition also impairs the uterine function. Polyhydramnios also results in excessive blood loss after delivery, which is referred to as postpartum hemorrhage. Ketoacidosis may occur when the blood sugar levels go beyond 200 mg/dl. Gestational diabetes can cause polyhydramnios. However, it is not a complication of polyhydramnios.

Which manifestation does the nurse relate to hypoglycemia in a diabetic client?
1

Clammy skin
2

Rapid breathing
3

Nausea or vomiting
4

Increased urination

Clammy skin

A client with hypoglycemia experiences sweating, pallor, and clammy skin. The hypoglycemic client has shallow respirations, whereas the hyperglycemic client takes rapid breaths. Hyperglycemia causes nausea and vomiting. The client with hypoglycemia experiences hunger. In cases of hyperglycemia, the kidneys excrete large volumes of urine in an attempt to regulate excess vascular volume.

The nurse is using White's classification of diabetes in pregnancy. What are the features of White's classification? Select all that apply.
1

It considers the duration of diabetes in the client.
2

It is based on the age at which diabetes was diagnosed.
3

It is based on the involvement of the eye and the kidneys.
4

It classified as type 1, type 2, others, and gestational diabetes.
5

It considers two groups with and without vascular complications

It considers the duration of diabetes in the client.

It is based on the age at which diabetes was diagnosed.

It is based on the involvement of the eye and the kidneys

The White's classification system considers the duration of diabetes in the client. It is based on the age at which the illness was diagnosed. It also considers the involvement of the end-organs, which are the eye and the kidneys. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) classifies diabetes into four mutually exclusive categories. They are type 1, type 2, others, and gestational diabetes. In this classification method, type 1 and type 2 diabetes are further classified into two groups. One group includes those with vascular complications and the other group includes those without vascular complications.

The nurse is assessing a client with hyperemesis gravidarum during the early stages of pregnancy. Which nonpharmacologic measure is appropriate to alleviate the discomforts associated with nausea and vomiting?
1

Having the client cook her favorite foods
2

Allowing frequent visits from friends
3

Providing environment that is free from odors
4

Having the client eat warm, low-fat, soupy foods

Providing environment that is free from odors

The client must be allowed to rest in an environment that is free from odors. This helps to alleviate the discomforts associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. Most clients find exposure to cooking odors nauseating; it is better to have other family members cook for the client. It is important for the client to have limited periods of visitation and receive adequate rest, because sleep disturbances accompany hyperemesis. The client is able to tolerate dry, cold foods better than warm, soupy foods.

Which client may need a cesarean delivery because of complications related to gestational diabetes?
1

A client with a big fetus
2

A client with uterine growth
3

A client with reduced fetal movement
4

A client with less than normal pelvic brim

A client with a big fetus

Fetal macrosomia is a common complication associated with gestational diabetes. Hypersecretion of fetal insulin hormone as a response to maternal hyperglycemia results in an increased size of the fetus. Maternal hyperglycemia does not cause the development of uterine growths. Fetal movements may be cause for a cesarean, but they are not associated with the client's gestational diabetes. The size of the pelvic brim is not altered by maternal hyperglycemia.

The nurse is caring for a client with poorly controlled gestational diabetes. What risks to the fetus does the nurse anticipate during the later pregnancy stages and birthing process? Select all that apply.
1

Ketoacidosis
2

Macrosomia
3

Shoulder dystocia
4

Facial nerve injury
5

Hyperglycemia

Macrosomia

Shoulder dystocia

Facial nerve injury

Poor glycemic control during the later stages of pregnancy increases the rate of fetal macrosomia, defined as a birth weight of more than 4000 g. The macrosomic fetus of the diabetic mother tends to have a disproportionate increase in shoulder, trunk, and chest size, leading to risk of shoulder dystocia. Failure of fetal descent or labor progress leads to difficult vaginal birth. A vaginal birth may lead to birth injuries in the infant, such as facial nerve injury. Ketoacidosis is a result of uncontrolled glycemia, which affects the mother during pregnancy. Hypoglycemia, not hyperglycemia, is a risk for infants born to diabetic mothers. In the later stages of pregnancy, hypoglycemia may occur as insulin doses are adjusted to maintain a normal blood glucose level.

The blood glucose level of a pregnant client is 325 mg/dl. Which test should be performed on the patient to assess the risk of maternal or intrauterine fetal death?
1

Ketones in urine
2

Glucose in urine
3

Arterial blood gases
4

Abdominal ultrasound

Ketones in urine

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a potentially fatal complication of diabetes that can lead to fetal death. This complication may occur if the client's blood glucose levels rise above 200mg/dl. Diabetic ketoacidosis can be confirmed by assessing the presence of ketones in the urine. The client's blood glucose level is 325 mg/dl and, hence, the patient has poorly controlled diabetes. Therefore, the nurse need not assess the urine glucose levels. Arterial blood gases and abdominal ultrasound are not useful for diagnosis of intrauterine fetal death.

A pregnant woman has contacted the nurse about severe nausea and vomiting. What is the priority assessment in evaluating a pregnant woman with severe nausea and vomiting?
1

Fasting blood glucose level
2

Ketonuria
3

Bilirubin
4

White Blood cell count

Ketonuria

Determination of ketonuria would be a critical assessment that would lead toward determination of hyperemesis. A pregnant client with severe nausea and vomiting may have hyperemesis gravidarum and, as such, requires critical monitoring to determine the nature of the problem. A FBS, although informative would not be the priority assessment at this time. Although a bilirubin level would be needed, it would not be the priority assessment. A WBC count would indicate the possibility of an infectious source but it would not be a priority assessment in terms of the client's presentation.

Which patients with diabetes may develop complications if they perform exercises? Select all that apply.
1

A client who is on insulin
2

A client with diabetic ketoacidosis
3

A client with uncontrolled hypertension
4

A client with severe peripheral neuropathy
5

A client who has lost 5 kg weight after diagnosis

A client with diabetic ketoacidosis

A client with uncontrolled hypertension

A client with severe peripheral neuropathy

Exercise is usually prescribed for the prevention of complications in diabetic clients. However, a client with ketoacidosis should not do exercises, because exercises burn more fats and proteins, thereby increasing the blood ketone levels. Blood pressure increases with exercise; therefore, a client with uncontrolled blood pressure should not perform exercises. A client with severe peripheral neuropathy is susceptible to injury because of loss of sensations. Therefore, exercise is contraindicated in this client. A client with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus can perform exercises under supervision. Weight loss is a common complication associated with diabetes. A client who has lost weight can perform exercises to prevent complications of diabetes.

Diabetes in pregnancy puts the fetus at risk in several ways. What should nurses be aware of?
1

With good control of maternal glucose levels, sudden and unexplained stillbirth is no longer a major concern.
2

The most important cause of perinatal loss in diabetic pregnancy is congenital malformations.
3

Infants of mothers with diabetes have the same risks for respiratory distress syndrome because of the careful monitoring.
4

At birth, the neonate of a diabetic mother is no longer at any greater risk.

The most important cause of perinatal loss in diabetic pregnancy is congenital malformations.

Congenital malformations account for 30% to 50% of perinatal deaths. Even with good control, sudden and unexplained stillbirth remains a major concern. Infants of diabetic mothers are at increased risk for respiratory distress syndrome. The transition to extrauterine life often is marked by hypoglycemia and other metabolic abnormalities.

Which factor is known to increase the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus?
1

Previous birth of large infant
2

Maternal age younger than 25
3

Underweight before pregnancy
4

Previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Previous birth of large infant

Previous birth of a large infant suggests gestational diabetes mellitus. A woman younger than 25 is not at risk for gestational diabetes mellitus. Obesity (greater than 90 kg or 198 lb) creates a higher risk for gestational diabetes. The person with type 2 diabetes mellitus already has diabetes and will continue to have it after pregnancy. Insulin may be required during pregnancy because oral hypoglycemia drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy.

The nurse is caring for a client with gestational diabetes. What does the nurse teach the client about using insulin?
1

Store unused vials of insulin in the freezer.
2

Shake the prepared syringes well before use.
3

Administer long-acting insulin before meals.
4

Inject insulin in the abdomen.

Inject insulin in the abdomen.

The nurse must teach the client that the abdomen is the preferred site for injecting insulin, because insulin is best absorbed in the abdominal area. Other suitable sites include the upper outer arm, the thighs, and the buttocks. Insulin must not be frozen, so unused vials of insulin are stored in the refrigerator, but not in the freezer. Syringes containing mixed insulin may be stored for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. The syringe must not be shaken; it must be gently rotated 20 times before injection. Long-acting insulin is usually administered at bedtime, because it provides glucose control for a longer duration.

A pregnant woman at 14 weeks of gestation is admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum. What is the primary goal of her treatment at this time?
1

Rest the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by restricting all oral intake for 48 hours
2

Reduce emotional distress by encouraging the woman to discuss her feelings
3

Reverse fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances
4

Restore the woman's ability to take and retain oral fluid and foods

Reverse fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances

Fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances present the greatest immediate danger to the well-being of the mother and fetus and should be corrected as soon as possible. Resting the GI tract is a component of treatment; however, it is not an immediate goal for this client. Discussing her feelings is also a component of treatment but not an immediate goal at this time. The ability to retain oral fluid and foods is a longer-term goal of treatment for this condition.

Which assessment finding does the nurse recognize as an indicator for early screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)?
1

The client is 24 years old.
2

The client's body mass index (BMI) is 22.
3

The client does not have diabetes.
4

The client had a previous stillbirth.

The client had a previous stillbirth.

Screening for GDM usually takes place between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. However, the client is screened for GDM earlier if there is a history of stillbirth or birth of a malformed or macrosomic infant. A 24-year-old client would not be considered for earlier screening for GDM; maternal age older than 25 years is a risk factor for GDM. A client with a BMI of 22 is not obese and is not considered for earlier screening for GDM. If the client does not have diabetes before gestation, the client need not be screened early for GDM.

The insulin dose of a client in the second trimester of pregnancy has been increased. When does the nurse expect the client's prepregnant dose of insulin to be recommended again?
1

When the client starts lactating
2

When the client delivers the baby
3

When the client is in the third trimester
4

When the client weans the baby from breastfeeding

When the client weans the baby from breastfeeding

Pregnancy hormones cause increased glucose tolerance and decreased sensitivity to insulin. This results in an increased need of insulin to obtain glycemic control. In this case, the client's glucose metabolism would reach its prepregnant state only when the client stops breastfeeding the baby. During lactation, the maternal glucose is utilized and, therefore, the client would require a low dose of insulin. When the client delivers the baby, the insulin-glucose levels do not return to their nonpregnant state immediately. Therefore, the client still has to continue with the recommended high insulin dose for some time. During the third trimester, the diabetogenic effect of hormones is excessive, and maternal insulin requirements may double.

A pregnant client experiences thyroid storm following delivery of the infant. What interventions would the nurse anticipate to be ordered by the physician? Select all that apply.
1

Restriction of intravenous fluids to prevent fluid overload
2

Administration of oxygen
3

Antipyretics
4

Synthroid
5

PTU

Administration of oxygen

Antipyretics
PTU

Oxygen would be provided. Antipyretics would be given to reduce fever. PTU would be administered. IV fluids would be administered to the client in order to reverse the hypotension that the client would be experiencing. Synthroid would not be given, because it is used to treat hypothyroidism, and with thyroid storm, the client is suffering from hyperthyroidism

A pregnant woman at 28 weeks of gestation has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Of what should the nurse be aware regarding this?
1

Oral hypoglycemic agents can be used if the woman is reluctant to give herself insulin
2

Dietary modifications and insulin are both required for adequate treatment
3

Glucose levels are monitored by testing urine four times a day and at bedtime
4

Dietary management involves distributing nutrient requirements over three meals and two or three snacks

Dietary management involves distributing nutrient requirements over three meals and two or three snacks

Small frequent meals over a 24-hour period help decrease the risk for hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis. Oral hypoglycemic agents can be harmful to the fetus and less effective than insulin in achieving tight glucose control. In some women gestational diabetes can be controlled with dietary modifications alone. Blood, not urine, glucose levels are monitored several times a day. Urine is tested for ketone content; results should be negative.

A client who is pregnant already has type 2 diabetes and a hemoglobin A1c of 7. What does the nurse would categorize this client as having?
1

Gestational diabetes
2

Insulin-dependent diabetes complicated by pregnancy.
3

Pregestational diabetes mellitus
4

Non-insulin-dependent diabeteswith complications

Pregestational diabetes mellitus

Pregestational diabetes mellitus is a term used to describe type 1 or type 2 diabetic clients in whom the diabetes existed prior to pregnancy. Gestational diabetes occurs when during the pregnancy, a woman becomes diabetic. A type 2 diabetic is non-insulin dependent. This option indicates type 1, or insulin-dependent, diabetes. There is no information presented that indicates complications at this point, because the hemoglobin A1c is within normal range, indicating adequate glycemic control.

A pregnant woman with type 1 diabetes is on rapid-acting, short-acting, and intermediate-acting insulin injections. Which are rapid and short-acting insulins? Select all that apply.
1

NPH (Novolin N)
2

Regular (Humalin)
3

Lispro (Humalog)
4

Aspart (NovoLog)
5

Glargine (Lantus)

Regular (Humalin)
Lispro (Humalog)
Aspart (NovoLog)

Humalog and NovoLog are rapid-acting insulins and Humalin is a short-acting insulin. Novolin N is an intermediate-acting insulin and Lantus is a long-acting insulin.

The nurse is advising a pregnant client who has been prescribed lispro (Humalog). What information does the nurse provide about the insulin? Select all that apply.
1

It is rapid-acting insulin preferred for use during pregnancy.
2

It is injected just before meals and causes less hyperglycemia.
3

It has shorter duration of action as compared to regular insulin.
4

It is released slowly in small amounts with no pronounced peak.
5

Its action lasts for 12 hours maintaining optimal blood glucose levels.

It is rapid-acting insulin preferred for use during pregnancy.

It is injected just before meals and causes less hyperglycemia.

It has shorter duration of action as compared to regular insulin.

Lispro (Humalog) is rapid-acting insulin preferred for use during pregnancy. It is convenient, because it is injected just before mealtime. It causes less hyperglycemia and fewer hypoglycemic episodes. It has a shorter duration of action as compared to regular insulin. Lispro (Humalog) is not released slowly in small amounts. Glargine (Lantus) is long-acting insulin that is released slowly in small amounts with no pronounced peak. The action of lispro (Humalog) lasts for 3 to 5 hours. Therefore clients often need additional longer-acting insulin to maintain optimal blood glucose levels.

nurse is caring for a pregnant client with gestational diabetes. What does the nurse teach the client about diet during pregnancy?
1

Eat three meals a day with two or three snacks.
2

Avoid meals or snacks just before bedtime.
3

Use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar.
4

Avoid foods that are high in dietary fiber.

Eat three meals a day with two or three snacks

The nurse should teach the client to distribute her daily required calories into three meals with two or three snacks. In order to prevent hypoglycemia, the client should eat meals on time and never skip meals. The client should consume a bedtime snack of at least 25 g of complex carbohydrate with some protein or fat to prevent hypoglycemia and starvation ketosis during the night. The nurse should teach the client to avoid the use of sweeteners that are nonnutritive and foods high in refined sugar. The client should eat foods that are high in dietary fiber.

The nurse is caring for a pregnant client prescribed levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. The client is also prescribed an iron supplement. What information does the nurse provide the client about taking these medications?
1

Take both medications together in the morning.
2

Take levothyroxine 1 hour after taking the iron supplement.
3

Take the iron supplement 2 hours after taking levothyroxine.
4

Take the two medications at different times of the day.

Take the two medications at different times of the day.

The nurse should teach the client to take the medications at different times of the day. Ferrous sulfate in the iron supplement decreases the absorption of T4, so their administration should be spaced at least 4 hours apart. If the medications are taken together, the levothyroxine will not be effective. The client should maintain a gap of at least 4 hours between both medications so that both medications are effective.

The nurse is teaching a woman with gestational diabetes the technique to inject insulin. What should the nurse include in the teaching session? Select all that apply.
1

Aspirate before injecting.
2

Clean injection site with alcohol.
3

Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle.
4

Inject insulin slowly.
5

After injection, cover site with sterile gauze.

Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle.

Inject insulin slowly.

After injection, cover site with sterile gauze.

Insulin should be injected with the short needle inserted at a 45- to 90-degree angle, depending on fatty tissue. Insulin is injected slowly to allow tissue expansion and minimize pressure, which can cause insulin leakage. After injection, the site should be covered with sterile gauze. Gentle pressure should be applied to prevent bleeding. Aspirating when injecting into subcutaneous tissue is not necessary. The injection site should be clean, but using alcohol is not necessary.

Which obstetric or medical complications should the nurse be alert for when providing care to a pregnant client with diabetes mellitus? Select all that apply.
1

Preeclampsia
2

Hypoglycemia
3

Hydramnios
4

Monilial vaginitis
5

Brachial plexus palsy

Preeclampsia
Hypoglycemia
Hydramnios
Monilial vaginitis

A pregnant client with diabetes mellitus is at risk for hypertension, which may result in preeclampsia. Hypoglycemia may occur due to an increase in insulin levels in the first trimester of pregnancy. Hydramnios may occur in the third trimester of pregnancy due to hyperglycemia. Monilial vaginitis is a vaginal infection that is seen in women with diabetes during pregnancy. This results from an alteration in the normal resistance of the body to infection. Brachial plexus palsy may be seen in the child born to a woman with diabetes, due to a difficult vaginal birth.

Which of the following findings is not likely to be seen in a pregnant client who has hypothyroidism?
1

Miscarriage
2

Macrosomia
3

Gestational hypertension
4

Placental abruption

Macrosomia

Infants born to mothers with hypothyroidism are more likely to be of low birth weight or preterm. These outcomes can be improved with early diagnosis and treatment. Hypothyroidism is often associated with both infertility and an increased risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women with hypothyroidism are more likely to experience both preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. Placental abruption and stillbirth are risks associated with hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism occurs in 2 to 3 pregnancies per 1000. Pregnant women with untreated hypothyroidism are at risk for what? Select all that apply.
1

Miscarriage
2

Macrosomia
3

Gestational hypertension
4

Placental abruption
5

Stillbirth

Miscarriage
Gestational hypertension
Placental abruption
Stillbirth

Hypothyroidism is often associated with both infertility and an increased risk for miscarriage. These outcomes can be improved with early diagnosis and treatment. Pregnant women with hypothyroidism are more likely to experience both preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. Placental abruption and stillbirth are risks associated with hypothyroidism. Placental abruption and stillbirth are risks associated with hypothyroidism. Infants born to mothers with hypothyroidism are more likely to be of low birth weight or preterm.

What is gestational diabetes?
1

Diabetes that accompanies hypertension
2

Diabetes that begins abruptly at a young age
3

Diabetes caused by absolute insulin deficiency
4

Diabetes that is diagnosed during pregnancy

Diabetes that is diagnosed during pregnancy

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that did not exist before it was diagnosed during pregnancy. Hypertension is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes usually begins abruptly at a young age. People with type 1 diabetes have absolute insulin deficiency resulting from the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas.

After assessing a client with pregestational diabetes, the nurse suspects that the client belongs to class R of pregestational diabetes. What is done to confirm the condition?
1

The client is referred for a urine sugar test.
2

The client is referred for a renal function test.
3

The client is referred for a dilated eye examination.
4

The nurse asks the age at which the client acquired diabetes.

The client is referred for a dilated eye examination

The nurse suspects that the client belongs to class R of pregestational diabetes. This indicates that the client has symptoms of diabetic retinopathy. A dilated eye examination test would confirm that the client has retinitis proliferans. The client has pregestational diabetes; therefore, the nurse need not refer the client for a urine sugar test. A client belonging to class F of pregestational diabetes has nephropathy, and, so, should be referred for a renal function test. The nurse should find out the age at which the client acquired diabetes in order to understand whether the client belongs to category B or C of pregestational diabetes.

For what condition is a client at risk in early pregnancy due to poorly controlled hyperglycemia?
1

Miscarriage
2

Hydramnios
3

Preeclampsia
4

Ketoacidosis

Miscarriage

Poorly controlled hyperglycemia at the time of conception and early pregnancy often leads to miscarriage. The risk of having a miscarriage increases with the duration and severity of the client's diabetes. Hydramnios occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy in the diabetic client. It may be due to increased glucose concentration in the amniotic fluid from maternal and fetal hyperglycemia, which induces fetal polyuria. Preeclampsia occurs in later pregnancy and in the postpartum period. Pregnant clients with poorly controlled hyperglycemia at the beginning of pregnancy, especially if combined with nephropathy and hypertension, are at higher risk of developing preeclampsia. Ketoacidosis occurs in the second and third trimesters. This is the accumulation of ketones in the body due to hyperglycemia, and it may lead to metabolic acidosis.

The nurse is assessing a client for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) using the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). What intervention by the nurse is appropriate while caring for this client?
1

Teach the client to eat an unrestricted diet the day before the test.
2

Instruct the client to avoid caffeine for 6 hours before the test.
3

Draw blood for a fasting blood glucose level just before the test.
4

Obtain the plasma glucose level an hour after a 50 g oral glucose load.

Draw blood for a fasting blood glucose level just before the test.

The nurse must draw blood for a fasting blood glucose level just before the test begins. This is the first sample, after which blood is drawn 1, 2, and 3 hours after providing the glucose load. The nurse must teach the client to eat an unrestricted diet that includes at least 150 g of carbohydrates for at least 3 days before the test. The client must be instructed to avoid caffeine for 12 hours before the test because it increases glucose levels. The client is given a 100 g oral glucose load, and then the client's blood glucose levels are determined every hour for up to 3 hours. The plasma glucose level is obtained after a 50 g oral glucose load in the first step of screening for GDM.

The nurse is caring for a client in the first trimester of pregnancy who is prescribed propylthiouracil (PTU) for hyperthyroidism. What are the side effects of this medication?
1

Facial anomalies
2

Hepatic toxicity
3

Esophageal atresia
4

Developmental delay

Hepatic toxicity

Although PTU controls the symptoms of hyperthyroidism effectively, it can cause hepatic toxicity serious enough to require liver transplantation. PTU is generally used only in the first trimester of pregnancy, after which the client is prescribed methimazole (MM). If MM is taken in the first trimester of pregnancy, it can cause facial anomalies, esophageal atresia, and developmental delay in the fetus.

After reviewing the blood glucose levels of a client, the nurse finds that the client is hypoglycemic and gives three glucose tablets to the client. After 15 minutes, the nurse finds that the client is still hypoglycemic, and again administers three glucose tablets. What should the nurse do next, if the client's blood glucose is 60 mg/dl after 15 minutes?
1

Notify the primary health care provider.
2

Administer 50% dextrose intravenous push.
3

Obtain blood samples for blood gas analysis.
4

Give three more glucose tablets to the client.

Notify the primary health care provider.

The hypoglycemic client's blood sugar level has not risen after giving three glucose tablets twice over an interval of 15 minutes each. In this situation, the nurse should notify the primary health care provider so that emergency intervention can be provided. Administering three more glucose tablets would not be of use, because this intervention had not been useful to improve the client's blood sugar level previously. An intravenous push of 50% dextrose should be done if the hypoglycemic client has become unconscious. In this case, arterial blood gas analysis would not be helpful in finding out the cause of persistent low blood sugar.

What is the pathologic change associated with diabetic ketoacidosis?
1

Loss of electrolytes
2

Metabolic alkalosis
3

Cellular dehydration
4

Increase in the blood volume

Cellular dehydration

Diabetic ketoacidosis is characterized by an increase in blood sugar and ketone levels. This causes osmotic diuresis, which ultimately results in cellular dehydration. There is loss of electrolytes in ketoacidosis. Ketone bodies in the blood would result in decreased blood pH, which is referred to as metabolic acidosis. In this condition, the kidneys excrete large amounts of fluid, which results in a decrease in blood volume.

The nurse is caring for a pregnant client with type 2 diabetes. What does the nurse teach the client about glucose metabolism in the first trimester?
1

Maternal glucose levels are affected by nausea and cravings.
2

The client's insulin dose may need to be increased to prevent hyperglycemia.
3

The fetus will produce insulin in the fifth week of gestation.
4

The client's fasting blood glucose level will increase.

Maternal glucose levels are affected by nausea and cravings.

Dietary fluctuations in early pregnancy due to nausea, vomiting, and cravings affect maternal glycemic control. These fluctuations may result in reduced blood glucose levels. The nurse reminds the client that her insulin dose may need to be decreased to prevent hypoglycemia. The fetus begins to produce enough insulin to utilize maternal glucose in the tenth week of gestation. Increases in estrogen and progesterone levels stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin. An increase in insulin promotes increased peripheral use of glucose and decreased blood glucose. This leads to decreased fasting blood glucose levels.

The nurse finds that the blood pH of a pregnant client who is diabetic is 6.5. What should the nurse administer to normalize the client's blood pH?
1

Dextrose solution
2

Normal saline solution
3

Sodium citrate solution
4

Sodium bicarbonate solution

Sodium bicarbonate solution

A blood pH of 6.5 indicates that the client has acidosis. In order to revert this state, the nurse should administer an alkaline solution, such as sodium bicarbonate solution. Dextrose and normal saline solution are neither acidic nor alkaline. These solutions would not help to normalize the blood pH. Sodium citrate solution would increase acidity and would worsen the client's condition.

In planning for the care of a 30-year-old woman with pregestational diabetes, the nurse recognizes what as the most important factor affecting pregnancy outcome?
1

Mother's age
2

Number of years since diabetes was diagnosed
3

Amount of insulin required prenatally
4

Degree of glycemic control during pregnancy

Degree of glycemic control during pregnancy

Although advanced maternal age may pose some health risks, for the woman with pregestational diabetes the most important factor remains the degree of glycemic control during pregnancy. The number of years since diagnosis is not as relevant to outcomes as the degree of glycemic control. The key to reducing risk in the pregestational diabetic woman is not the amount of insulin required but rather the level of glycemic control. Women with excellent glucose control and no blood vessel disease should have good pregnancy outcomes.

In which pregnant client does the nurse identify the need to screen for undiagnosed homozygous maternal phenylketonuria (PKU)?
1

A client who had a macrosomic fetus in a previous pregnancy
2

A client who had obstructed labor in a previous pregnancy
3

A client who has given birth to a microcephalic infant
4

A patient who had placental insufficiency in a previous pregnancy

client who has given birth to a microcephalic infant

A client who has previously had a microcephalic infant must be screened for undiagnosed homozygous maternal PKU in the first prenatal visit. Toxic accumulation of phenylalanine in the blood due to a lack of the enzyme phenylalanine hydrolase interferes with brain development. The client who had a previous macrosomic fetus must be screened for hyperglycemia. A client with a macrosomic fetus may have obstructed labor. Placental insufficiency may lead to stillbirth. The client who had placental insufficiency in a previous pregnancy need not be screened for PKU.

What does the nurse instruct a pregnant client who is diabetic to do? Select all that apply.
1

"Perform exercises just before meals."
2

"Perform exercises with a partner."
3

"Stop exercising if contractions occur."
4

"Lie supine if contractions occur."
5

"Exercise at the same time every day."

Perform exercises with a partner."

"Stop exercising if contractions occur."
Exercise at the same time every day."

The nurse should instruct the client to exercise with a partner as a safety measure. The client should be instructed to stop exercising immediately if contractions occur. The client should perform exercises, eat meals, and take insulin at the same time every day. It is best to perform exercises after meals, when the blood glucose levels are rising. If contractions occur, the client should drink two to three glasses of water and lie down on her side for an hour. If contractions do not cease, the client should contact the primary health care provider.

The nurse is assessing a client at 30 weeks of pregnancy with poorly controlled pregestational diabetes. The client has come for the antenatal visit on a Monday. When should the nurse ask the client to come next?
1

Next week on a Monday
2

Next week on a Thursday
3

Same week on a Thursday
4

Week after next week on a Monday

Same week on a Thursday

An antepartum client with pregestational diabetes requires more frequent antenatal visits. A client with poorly controlled diabetes who is in the third trimester of pregnancy should visit the clinic twice a week. If the client visited the clinic on a Monday, the nurse should instruct the client to come for the next visit on the same week on a Thursday. A client who is in the first and second trimester of pregnancy can come once in a week or two weeks. Because this client is in the third trimester and has poorly controlled diabetes, the nurse should not ask the client to come on next week on Monday, Thursday, or the week after next on Monday.

The nurse is caring for a diabetic client who is breastfeeding her infant. Within what time frame following childbirth do the client's insulin requirements return to prepregnancy levels?
1

Immediately after childbirth
2

Seven to 10 days after childbirth
3

On completion of weaning
4

During the lactation period

On completion of weaning

The breastfeeding mother's insulin requirements return to prepregnancy levels after the infant has been completely weaned. At birth, there is a sudden drop in the levels of insulinase following expulsion of the placenta, but they do not return to prepregnancy levels. When the mother is not breastfeeding, the insulin carbohydrate balance returns in 7 to 10 days. Maternal glucose is used up during lactation; therefore the breastfeeding mother's insulin requirement remains low.

A cesarean birth is planned for a diabetic client with fetal macrosomia. Which intervention by the nurse is appropriate when preparing the client for surgery?
1

Instruct the client to avoid insulin the night before the surgery.
2

Administer a full dose of insulin on the morning of the surgery.
3

Ensure the client has nothing by mouth on the morning of the surgery.
4

Infuse intravenous 5% dextrose if the client's glucose level is below 100 mg/dl.

Ensure the client has nothing by mouth on the morning of the surgery.

The nurse must ensure the client is not given anything by mouth on the morning of the surgery. The client must take a full dose of insulin at bedtime the night before surgery. The client is fasting; therefore insulin is not administered on the morning of the surgery. The client is given intravenous 5% dextrose if her glucose levels fall below 70 mg/dl during active labor.

What are the metabolic changes associated with pregnancy? Select all that apply.
1

Maternal production of insulin increases during the first trimester.
2

Fasting blood glucose levels will decrease during the first trimester.
3

The patient's tolerance to glucose increases in the second trimester.
4

There is enough glucose for the fetus during the second trimester.
5

Maternal insulin requirements increase during the first trimester.

Maternal production of insulin increases during the first trimester.

Fasting blood glucose levels will decrease during the first trimester.
There is enough glucose for the fetus during the second trimester.

In the first trimester, an increase in estrogen and progesterone production stimulates the beta cells in the pancreas to increase insulin production. The beta cells also increase peripheral use of glucose and, in turn, decrease the overall blood glucose levels. This reduces fasting glucose levels by approximately 10%. During the second and third trimesters hormonal changes increase insulin resistance and ensure an abundant supply of glucose for the fetus. The body develops insulin resistance as a glucose-sparing mechanism. In the second trimester hormonal changes decrease tolerance to glucose. Maternal insulin requirements increase from 18 to 24 weeks of gestation, not in the first trimester.

A pregnant client with pregestational insulin-dependent diabetes is going for a week's vacation to another state. What should the nurse ask the client to carry with her in order to prevent complications? Select all that apply.

Insulin vials
Glucose tablets
Blood glucose meter

A client with pregestational diabetes should be very careful and should be prepared to tackle any complications associated with high or low blood sugar levels. The nurse should ask the client to carry the routine insulin medications. Hormonal effects of pregnancy can also cause hypoglycemia, which can be normalized by taking glucose tablets. The client should be able to find out her blood sugar levels any time. Therefore, the nurse should ask the client to take a glucometer for routine monitoring of blood sugar levels. Antibiotics should be taken only if the client has an infection. Antihypertensives would be required if the client has high blood pressure.

What are maternal and neonatal risks associated with gestational diabetes mellitus?
1

Maternal premature rupture of membranes and neonatal sepsis.
2

Maternal hyperemesis and neonatal low birth weight.
Correct
3

Maternal preeclampsia and fetal macrosomia.
4

Maternal placenta previa and fetal prematurity.

Maternal preeclampsia and fetal macrosomia

Women with gestational diabetes have twice the risk of developing hypertensive disorders such as preeclampsia, and the baby usually has macrosomia. Premature rupture of membranes and neonatal sepsis are not risks associated with gestational diabetes. Hyperemesis is not seen with gestational diabetes, nor is there an association with low birth weight of the infant. Placental previa and subsequent prematurity of the neonate are not risks associated with gestational diabetes.

The nurse is caring for a client in early pregnancy with hyperemesis. What changes in diet will benefit this client?
1

Avoiding dairy products and cold foods
2

Eating a high-protein snack at bedtime
3

Eating foods that are served warm
4

Avoiding dry, bland, and low-fat foods

Eating a high-protein snack at bedtime

Eating a high-protein snack at bedtime may help the client overcome protein deficiency and reduce hyperemesis. The client can have dairy products, which are easily accepted by the body. Dairy products also contain proteins. Clients with hyperemesis are able to tolerate cold foods better than foods that are served warm. The client can have dry, bland, and low-fat foods, because they do not induce hyperemesis

What are the manifestations associated with hypoglycemia? Select all that apply.
Correct
1

Dizziness
2

Fruity breath
Correct
3

Blurred vision
Correct
4

Excessive hunger
5

Presence of acetone in urine

Dizziness
Blurred vision
Excessive hunger

Hypoglycemia refers to decreased blood sugar levels. Decreased availability of glucose impairs brain function, which results in dizziness and blurred vision. Decreased glucose levels stimulate the satiety center of the brain, which results in excessive hunger. Fruity breath and the presence of acetone in urine result from increased ketone levels in the blood. This complication may occur when the blood glucose increases over 300 mg/dl in the non-pregnant client and 200 mg/dl in the pregnant client.

The nurse is teaching a client insulin self-administration techniques. What does the nurse include in the lesson? Select all that apply.

Allow the alcohol to dry before injecting the insulin
Apply gentle pressure after the injection.
Record the dose and time of the injection

The nurse should instruct the client to ensure that the injection site is clean. The site does not need to be cleaned with alcohol; if alcohol is applied, insulin should be injected only after the alcohol dries. Gentle pressure should be applied with sterile gauze while withdrawing the needle after injection to prevent bleeding. The client should maintain a record of the dose and time of injection. Insulin should be administered by puncturing the skin at a 90-degree angle. Insulin should be injected slowly into the skin.

What are the potentially fatal complications associated with diabetes? Select all that apply.
1

Neuropathy
2

Nephropathy
3

Atherosclerosis
4

Cardiomyopathy
5

Restrictive lung disease

Neuropathy
Nephropathy
Atherosclerosis

Diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood sugar. High blood sugar results in damage to the peripheral nerve, which is referred to as neuropathy. Increased workload on the renal system imposed by high blood sugar results in nephropathy. Diabetes also accelerates the process of atherosclerosis. High blood sugar levels do not impair the function of cardiac muscles and lung function. Therefore, diabetes is not associated with cardiomyopathy or restrictive lung disease.

For which condition should the nurse be alert after administering terbutaline (Brethine) to a pregnant client with diabetes mellitus?
1

Dyspnea
2

Infection
3

Ketoacidosis
4

Hypoglycemia

Ketoacidosis

Terbutaline (Brethine) is a beta-mimetic drug administered for tocolysis to stop preterm labor. It may lead to hyperglycemia and cause ketoacidosis in the pregnant client. Dyspnea on exertion may be seen in a pregnant patient with acquired cardiac disease. Infection in pregnant women happens due to an alteration in the normal resistance of the body to infection. Hypoglycemia occurs if there is an increase in the insulin levels.

Which obstetric or medical complications would the nurse be alert for when providing care to a pregnant client with diabetes?

Those who are pregnant with diabetes have a greater risk of preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and cesarean birth. Newborns of mothers with diabetes have a higher risk of malformations, macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, birth injury, respiratory distress syndrome, hypocalcemia, and hypoglycemia.

What are the complication of diabetes mellitus in pregnancy?

Key Points. Diabetes in pregnancy increases risk of fetal macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, stillbirth, and, if preexisting or gestational diabetes is poorly controlled during organogenesis, major congenital malformations and spontaneous abortion.

Which is the most common complication noted in newborns with a diabetic mother?

Macrosomia. Macrosomia is the most constant complication in GDM. The concept of excessive fetal growth is expressed either by the word “macrosomia” or by the expression “large for gestational age” (LGA). Macrosomia is defined by a birth weight (BW) of 4000 or 4500 g and more, depending on the authors.

What are the potentially fatal complications associated with diabetes?

Possible complications include:.
Heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease. Diabetes majorly increases the risk of many heart problems. ... .
Nerve damage (neuropathy). ... .
Kidney damage (nephropathy). ... .
Eye damage (retinopathy). ... .
Foot damage. ... .
Skin and mouth conditions. ... .
Hearing impairment. ... .
Alzheimer's disease..