Safe, Effective Care Environment
58. A client, who is gravida 1, para 0, is attending a prenatal visit. She asks about water aerobic exercise class. A nurse gives the client instructions about swimming and bathing during pregnancy. Which client statement indicates that health teaching has not been effective?
. "I can continue to swim as long as my membranes aren't ruptured."
. "I can relax in a hot tub for 30 minutes after swimming."
. "I can take a warm bath everyday."
. "I should avoid sitting in the sauna for prolonged periods."
Test-Taking Tip
This question is asking which statement is not a safe action by the client and therefore requires further health teaching.
Content Area: Maternity, Antepartum; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Evaluation; Cognitive Level: Analysis; Client Need/Subneed: Safe and Effective Care Environment/Safety and Infection Control/Accident Prevention and Injury Prevention
Safe, Effective Care Environment
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Answer 1 is incorrect because swimming is a suggested exercise for pregnancy and is safe unless the amniotic membranes have ruptured. Answer 2 is correct because women who are pregnant should not sit in hot tubs for longer than 10 minutes. Becoming overheated in a hot tub is not recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) also recommends that women who are pregnant should never let their core body temperature rise above 102.2°F. Women who choose to use a hot tub should monitor their temperature to avoid overheating. Answer 3 is incorrect because a warm bath, which is not uncomfortable or scalding, is a safer way to relax. In a bath, much of the upper body will remain out of the water, making it less likely to overheat. Additionally, the water in a bath begins to cool off, as opposed to a hot tub, which further reduces a risk of overheating. Answer 4 is incorrect because a sauna, like a hot tub, can lead to overheating and should be used with caution in short periods of time.