A nurse is reviewing contraception options for four clients.
The nurse should identify which of the following clients as having a contraindication to oral contraceptives.
A.
A client who has a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg.
B.
A client who has a menstrual cycle every 14 days.
C.
A client who has a hematocrit of 39%.
D.
A 15-year-old client who has acne.
When evaluating contraindications for oral contraceptives, the nurse should be aware of specific medical conditions and factors that can make oral contraceptives unsafe or less effective.
Here’s a review of each option:
A. A client who has a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg.
- Explanation: Hypertension is a contraindication for oral contraceptives. Elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of cardiovascular events when using hormonal contraceptives. Therefore, this client has a contraindication.
B. A client who has a menstrual cycle every 14 days.
- Explanation: Frequent menstrual cycles alone do not generally contraindicate the use of oral contraceptives. However, this might be a sign of an underlying condition that needs further evaluation.
C. A client who has a hematocrit of 39%.
- Explanation: A hematocrit of 39% is within the normal range (approximately 36-46% for females). This finding does not contraindicate the use of oral contraceptives.
D. A 15-year-old client who has acne.
- Explanation: Acne is not a contraindication for oral contraceptives. In fact, oral contraceptives are sometimes prescribed to manage acne in adolescents.
Conclusion: The client with elevated blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg has a contraindication to oral contraceptives due to the increased risk of cardiovascular complications.
The correct answer is A. A client who has a blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg.