The nurse has reviewed the Graphic Record and Diagnostic Results at 1030. The nurse is collaborating with another nurse about the client's plan of care. For each potential provider's prescription, click to specify if the potential prescription is anticipated or contraindicated for the client.
Explanation & Rationale
• Repeat quantitative B-hCG level: Monitoring the trend of quantitative beta-hCG levels is crucial in suspected ectopic pregnancy. Falling or plateauing hCG levels confirm the diagnosis and guide the management plan, especially if methotrexate is administered or surgical intervention is considered. • Methotrexate IM: Methotrexate is an anticipated prescription for the medical management of a stable ectopic pregnancy. It works by stopping the growth of rapidly dividing cells and is appropriate when the client is hemodynamically stable and the ectopic pregnancy is unruptured. • Blood typing: Blood typing is essential to determine Rh factor status. If the client is Rh-negative, Rh immune globulin should be administered to prevent isoimmunization, which could impact future pregnancies. This is a standard part of the care plan for any pregnancy loss or threatened pregnancy complication. • Transvaginal ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound is needed to confirm the location of the pregnancy. In ectopic pregnancies, it helps visualize the presence or absence of an intrauterine gestational sac and may directly identify ectopic implantation, such as in the fallopian tube. • Cervical cerclage: Cervical cerclage is contraindicated in this case. It is used to prevent preterm birth in clients with cervical insufficiency but is not appropriate in a non-viable pregnancy or suspected ectopic pregnancy. Placing a cerclage could worsen the clinical situation and delay necessary treatment.