11. An 18-year-old client is having her first gynecological examination. She asks a nurse about a pill for birth control. Which nursing statement about oral contraceptive agents is correct?
11. An 18-year-old client is having her first gynecological examination. She asks a nurse about a pill for birth control. Which nursing statement about oral contraceptive agents is correct?
. Oral contraceptives are the best choice with just a few minor side effects.
. Most women stop taking oral contraceptives because they cause severe nausea.
. Oral contraceptives inhibit ovulation and change the consistency of cervical mucus.
. These drugs can be made more effective by monitoring basal body temperature.
Test-Taking Tip
Teaching a client that a particular contraceptive is the best choice is not therapeutic or appropriate. Look for the option that gives the current information about the effects of the drug, not incorrect information (Answers 2 and 4).
Content Area: Women's Health, Family Planning; Integrated Process: Teaching and Learning; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Health Promotion and Maintenance/Lifestyle Choices
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Answer 1 is incorrect because oral contraceptives may not be the best choice for this client. This response has nothing to do with indicating that teaching has been correct. Teaching should include information that taking oral contraceptives increases the chance of blood clots, which can be life-threatening. Answer 2 is incorrect because most women do not stop taking oral contraceptives due to nausea. The nausea is usually not severe enough to cause women to stop taking the contraceptive. Answer 3 is correct because oral contraceptives do inhibit ovulation and change the consistency of cervical mucus. The hormones prevent ovulation and affect the color and consistency of cervical mucus. Answer 4 is incorrect because oral contraceptives suppress ovulation. The basal body temperature is not an indicator of ovulation when a woman is taking oral contraceptives, and cannot be used to increase the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.