Case Study #1: Christina Diaz
Scenario:
Christina Diaz is a 16-year-old primigravida who arrives at the prenatal clinic for her first prenatal visit. Christina’s last menstrual period was approximately 16 weeks ago. During the initial history, Christina tells the nurse that she is feeling fat and unattractive. She states that she has noticed ugly stretch marks and awful color changes on her breasts and abdomen. Christina tells the nurse during the first interview that she feels fat and unattractive. She says that her breasts and stomach have changed color and have ugly stretch marks.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. What is the priority nursing diagnosis at this time?
2. What is the expected outcome associated with this diagnosis?
3. Describe the teaching/learning needs related to the scenario that correspond to the priority nursing diagnosis.
4. List interventions with rationales that correspond to the priority nursing diagnosis.
Case Study #2: Elizabeth Fong
Scenario:
Elizabeth Fong is a 37-year-old primigravida with a twin pregnancy at 30 weeks of gestation. She arrives at the prenatal clinic for her regular checkup. Elizabeth reports that during the past several days she has been experiencing low back pain, difficulty breathing, and the sensation that her abdomen has “expanded.” She complains of fatigue and difficulty finding a position of comfort while resting. Elizabeth states that the twins are active. Elizabeth’s fundal height measures 36 centimeters. She says she’s tired and has trouble finding a comfortable position to rest in. Elizabeth says the twins keep busy. The height of Elizabeth’s fundus is 36 centimeters. The fetal heart rates are as follows: Twin A = 140 bpm; Twin B = 134 bpm.
Elizabeth’s laboratory data from 1 week ago reveal the following findings:
Hemoglobin: 9.2 g/dL.
Serum ferritin level: 10 mg /dL.
1-hour glucose challenge test: 130 mg/dL.
A sonogram performed during this visit shows a closed cervix, normal fetal growth, and excessive amniotic fluid.
Critical Thinking Questions
1. What is the priority nursing diagnosis at this time?
2. What are the expected outcomes associated with this diagnosis?
3. Describe the teaching/learning needs related to the scenario that correspond to the priority nursing diagnosis.
4. List interventions with rationales that correspond to the priority nursing diagnosis.
