A woman is hospitalized with hyperemesis gravidarum. Which other member of the health-care team should the nurse ensure is involved in this patient's care as a priority?

Question

A.
Chaplain
B.
Diabetic educator
C.
Mental health nurse practitioner
D.
Registered dietician

Answer 1

ANS: D
Although all members of the health-care team have important roles to play and may be needed in the care of this patient, the dietician is the priority. Patients with hyperemesis gravidarum have extreme nausea and vomiting unrelated to other causes. They demonstrate weight loss and measures of starvation such as ketosis. Serious complications arise if the woman cannot maintain her weight despite antiemetics. The dietician will be helpful in assisting the woman to plan appropriate meals and snacks or, if the woman needs enteral or parenteral feedings, in providing nutritional information to guide therapy.