A 23-year-old African-American woman is pregnant with her first child. Based on the statistics related to infant mortality, which of the following plans is most important for the nurse to implement?

Question

1. Perform a nutrition assessment.
2. Refer the woman to a social worker.
3. Advise the woman to see an obstetrician and not a midwife.
4. Explain to the woman the importance of keeping her prenatal care appointments.

Answer 1

4
1. Incorrect. Nutritional status is an important modifiable risk factor, but is not the most important action for a nurse to take in this situation.
2. Incorrect. The patient may need assistance from a social worker at some time during her pregnancy but it is not the most important aspect for the nurse to address at this time.
3. Incorrect. If the woman were to have identifiable high risk issues, her health care may be provided by a physician. However, it cannot be assumed that all African-American women have high risk issues. Additionally, it is not the most important aspect for the nurse to focus on at this time, nor is it appropriate for a nurse to advise or manage the type of care a patient is to receive.
4. Correct. Consistent prenatal care is the best method of preventing or controlling risk factors associated with infant mortality.