58. A primiparous client at 26 weeks' gestation presents to a prenatal clinic with concerns about her symptoms of nosebleeds, nasal stuffiness, and slight bilateral hearing loss. She asks a nurse about the cause of her symptoms. Which explanation by the nurse is most accurate?
. "This sounds like you have a bad cold. You need to take a decongestant."
. "These symptoms are common in pregnancy because pregnancy hormones cause increased blood flow, which causes head congestion."
. "These are symptoms of a major problem. You need to be referred to a specialist."
. "This sounds like the symptoms of a sinus infection. You need to take antibiotics and decongestants."
Test-Taking Tip
Three options state that there is a problem. One option states that it is "normal"; select the option that is different. Remember that the normal symptoms of pregnancy do not require any medical interventions. Education and reassurance are the appropriate interventions.
Content Area: Maternity, Intrapartum; Integrated Process: Teaching and Learning; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Health Promotion and Maintenance/Ante/Intra/Postpartum and Newborn Care
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Answer 1 is incorrect because these symptoms are a result of increased estrogen levels that cause the congestion, and will not be relieved by a decongestant. Answer 2 is correct because the elevated levels of estrogen during pregnancy cause an increased blood flow in the upper respiratory tract. Nasal stuffiness, some hearing loss, and nosebleeds are common during pregnancy. Answer 3 is incorrect because these are normal pregnancy symptoms; a referral to a specialist is not necessary. Answer 4 is incorrect because these symptoms are a normal part of pregnancy. Decongestants and antibiotics are not needed.