QUESTION: "A client who tells the nurse that she would like to use the basal body temperature method for family planning receives instructions about the method. Which of the following client statements indicates to the nurse that the teaching has been successful?"
CHOICES
( X ) a.) "When my temperature remains elevated for 7 days, ovulation has occurred."
( X ) b.) "Taking my temperature in the evening just after dinner or before I go to bed is best."
( X ) c.) "Because this method is not very effective, I should use other forms of contraception too."
( O ) d.) "It's important to take my temperature at about the same time every morning before arising."
RATIONALE: The client using the basal body temperature method should take her temperature for 5 minutes at the same time every morning on awakening, before arising, or starting any activity. Doing so prevents other factors, such as eating or moving, from possibly influencing body temperature. The temperature reading should be recorded on a graph. In some women, a slight drop in body temperature occurs just before ovulation. However, a woman cannot determine exactly when ovulation occurs until it has actually happened. Typically, ovulation occurs when the slight drop in body temperature is followed by temperature rise of a full degree. This temperature rise is maintained for the remainder of the menstrual cycle. Taking the basal body temperature at other times than on awakening of the day, such as before bedtime, may result in inaccurate readings because the client's temperature may be affected by numerous factors, causing fluctuations. Basal body temperature can be an effective fertility management method if the client is motivated and able to perform the procedure correctly. Unfortunately it is one of the least reliable methods. Generally clients who choose this method do not wish to use other chemical or barrier methods for a variety of reasons. NURSING PROCESS STEP: Evaluation CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Health promotion and maintenance CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: None
