Complications of Pregnancy Practice Questions
20 free Complications of Pregnancy practice questions for the NCLEX Exam. Tap an option to answer — you get instant feedback, the correct answer, and a detailed explanation for every question.
Which clinical finding is most indicative of preeclampsia?
- A Low blood pressure
- B Hypertension and proteinuria
- C Bradycardia with irregular rhythm
- D Maternal hypoglycemia
Correct answer: Hypertension and proteinuria
Preeclampsia is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation. These findings indicate abnormal placental function and maternal vascular changes.
Which symptom should a nurse recognize as a warning sign of severe preeclampsia?
- A Mild nausea
- B Blurred vision
- C Increased appetite
- D Frequent urination
Correct answer: Blurred vision
Blurred vision indicates central nervous system involvement. It is a warning sign of severe preeclampsia and possible progression to eclampsia.
What is the primary treatment for eclampsia?
- A Insulin therapy
- B Magnesium sulfate
- C Antibiotic therapy
- D Diuretic therapy
Correct answer: Magnesium sulfate
Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent and control seizures in eclampsia. It acts as a central nervous system depressant.
Which assessment finding indicates magnesium sulfate toxicity?
- A Increased deep tendon reflexes
- B Respiratory depression
- C Severe hypertension
- D Maternal tachycardia
Correct answer: Respiratory depression
Respiratory depression is a sign of magnesium toxicity. Monitoring respiratory rate is critical during therapy.
Which antidote is used for magnesium sulfate toxicity?
- A Naloxone hydrochloride
- B Calcium gluconate
- C Atropine sulfate
- D Epinephrine
Correct answer: Calcium gluconate
Calcium gluconate reverses the effects of magnesium toxicity. It should be readily available during magnesium therapy.
Which blood pressure reading meets the criteria for preeclampsia?
- A 110/70 mmHg
- B 120/80 mmHg
- C 140/90 mmHg
- D 100/60 mmHg
Correct answer: 140/90 mmHg
A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher after 20 weeks of gestation is diagnostic of preeclampsia when accompanied by proteinuria.
Which complication can result from untreated preeclampsia?
- A Gestational diabetes
- B Eclampsia
- C Anemia
- D Asthma
Correct answer: Eclampsia
Untreated preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, which involves seizures. This is a life-threatening condition.
Which nursing intervention is appropriate for a patient with severe preeclampsia?
- A Encourage bright lights
- B Increase activity
- C Promote high sodium diet
- D Limit stimulation
Correct answer: Limit stimulation
Reducing environmental stimuli helps prevent seizures. Patients with severe preeclampsia are sensitive to stimulation.
Which urine finding supports the diagnosis of preeclampsia?
- A Glucose
- B Ketones
- C Protein
- D Blood
Correct answer: Protein
Proteinuria indicates kidney involvement in preeclampsia. It is a key diagnostic criterion.
Which fetal complication is associated with preeclampsia?
- A Fetal macrosomia
- B Polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid)
- C Hydrocephalus (fluid in the brain)
- D Intrauterine growth restriction
Correct answer: Intrauterine growth restriction
Preeclampsia can reduce placental blood flow, leading to intrauterine growth restriction. This affects fetal development.
Which reflex assessment is important during magnesium sulfate therapy?
- A Pharyngeal gag reflex
- B Pupillary light reflex
- C Corneal reflex
- D Deep tendon reflexes
Correct answer: Deep tendon reflexes
Decreased deep tendon reflexes indicate magnesium toxicity. Regular monitoring is essential.
Which sign indicates worsening preeclampsia?
- A Normal reflexes
- B Stable blood pressure
- C Clear vision
- D Severe headache
Correct answer: Severe headache
A severe headache suggests increased cerebral pressure. It is a sign of worsening preeclampsia.
Which dietary instruction is appropriate for a patient with preeclampsia?
- A Increase daily sodium intake
- B Avoid all fluid intake
- C High sugar and high fat diet
- D Balanced, protein-rich diet
Correct answer: Balanced, protein-rich diet
A balanced diet with adequate protein supports maternal and fetal health. Sodium restriction is not routinely recommended.
Which position is recommended for a patient with preeclampsia?
- A Supine
- B Prone
- C Trendelenburg
- D Left lateral
Correct answer: Left lateral
The left lateral position improves uteroplacental blood flow. It helps reduce blood pressure and enhances circulation.
Which laboratory value may be elevated in preeclampsia?
- A Hemoglobin
- B Platelet count
- C Liver enzymes
- D Serum calcium level
Correct answer: Liver enzymes
Elevated liver enzymes indicate liver involvement in severe preeclampsia. This may be part of HELLP syndrome.
Which complication is characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets?
- A HELLP syndrome
- B Disseminated intravascular coagulation
- C Sepsis
- D Anemia
Correct answer: HELLP syndrome
HELLP syndrome is a severe form of preeclampsia. It involves hemolysis, liver dysfunction, and low platelet count.
Which sign is most concerning in a patient with preeclampsia?
- A Epigastric pain
- B Mild edema
- C Normal reflexes
- D Slight fatigue
Correct answer: Epigastric pain
Epigastric pain indicates liver involvement and possible HELLP syndrome. It requires immediate attention.
Which medication may be used to control hypertension in preeclampsia?
- A Labetalol
- B Insulin
- C Aspirin
- D Ibuprofen
Correct answer: Labetalol
Labetalol is commonly used to manage hypertension in pregnancy. It helps reduce blood pressure safely.
Which is the definitive treatment for preeclampsia?
- A Medication only
- B Bed rest
- C Fetal delivery
- D Fluid restriction
Correct answer: Fetal delivery
Delivery of the fetus is the only cure for preeclampsia. Management focuses on stabilizing the mother until delivery.
Which action should the nurse take during a seizure in a patient with eclampsia?
- A Position on side, protect airway
- B Restrain the patient's limbs
- C Insert an oral airway immediately
- D Leave the patient unattended
Correct answer: Position on side, protect airway
Placing the patient on their side helps maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration. Safety is the priority during a seizure.