56. A primiparous client at 20 weeks' gestation reports symptoms of thick white vaginal discharge and intense itching. A wet mount specimen reveals a diagnosis of Candida albicans. The client asks a nurse what she can do to prevent future infections. Which response by the nurse is most accurate?
. "Eat a serving of live-culture yogurt daily."
. "Douche with vinegar and water after intercourse."
. "Douche with live-culture yogurt daily."
. "Take antibiotics as ordered until all are gone."
Test-Taking Tip
Two of the options are similar ("douche" in Answers 2 and 3) and involve a practice that is not recommended in pregnancy; therefore, eliminate these options.
Content Area: Maternity, Intrapartum Infection; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Implementation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Health Promotion and Maintenance/Self-Care
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Answer 1 is correct because evidence suggests that ingestion of live-culture yogurt may decrease the incidence of vaginal yeast infections. Answer 2 is incorrect because, although douching with vinegar and water decreases the vaginal pH and inhibits the growth of yeast cells, douching is not recommended in pregnancy. Answer 3 is incorrect because, even though douching with live-culture yogurt decreases vaginal pH and inhibits the growth of yeast, douching is not recommended in pregnancy. Answer 4 is incorrect because a ntibiotic therapy is not effective in preventing yeast infections, and can actually increase the incidence of vaginal yeast infections.