A nurse is caring for a client who is at 34 weeks of gestation and has just had an amniocentesis. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Schedule the client for an aPTT test. An aPTT (activated partial thromboplastin time) test is used to monitor heparin therapy and is not relevant following an amniocentesis unless the client has a known bleeding disorder, which is not indicated here. B. Collect a blood sample from the client for a direct Coombs test. The direct Coombs test is typically performed on newborns, not the mother, to detect antibodies attached to red blood cells. It is not a routine part of post-amniocentesis care. C. Monitor the client for uterine contractions. After an amniocentesis, it is essential to monitor for signs of preterm labor, including uterine contractions. The procedure can irritate the uterus and potentially trigger contractions, especially at 34 weeks gestation. D. Administer Rho(D) Immune globulin if the client is Rh positive. Rho(D) Immune globulin is given to Rh-negative clients after procedures like amniocentesis to prevent isoimmunization. It is not indicated for Rh-positive individuals.