A woman in her third trimester of pregnancy complains of a painful burning sensation in her hands and lower arms. Which action by the nurse is best?
A.
Advise the woman to elevate her hands at night.
B.
Document the finding and alert the provider.
C.
Encourage the woman to see a neurologist.
D.
Request a prescription for pregabalin (Lyrica).
ANS: A
Edema that occurs during pregnancy can lead to fluid collection in the wrist and puts pressure on the median nerve. This leads to carpal tunnel syndrome, characterized by burning pain and paresthesia in the (usually dominant) hand or hands up to the elbow. The nurse should advise the woman to elevate her hands at night. Carpal tunnel syndrome usually resolves after pregnancy, but if it persists, the woman may require surgical treatment. The nurse should always document abnormal findings and alert the provider, but further action is needed. Lyrica is used for nerve pain and would not be suggested here.
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