A nurse in a prenatal clinic is reviewing the medical record of a client who is at 16 weeks of gestation to determine the need for immunizations. Which of the following prescriptions should the nurse anticipate?
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): MMR is a live attenuated vaccine and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm. It should be given at least one month prior to conception or postpartum if immunity is needed. B. Varicella (VAR): Like MMR, the varicella vaccine is live and should not be administered during pregnancy. Pregnant individuals without evidence of immunity should receive it postpartum to protect against future infections. C. Tetanus diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap): Tdap is recommended during each pregnancy but typically between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation to maximize passive antibody transfer to the fetus. At 16 weeks, it would not yet be indicated. D. Inactivated influenza (IV): The inactivated flu vaccine is recommended for all pregnant clients during flu season, regardless of the trimester. It protects both the pregnant individual and the fetus from complications related to influenza infection.