A woman has been admitted to the labor and delivery unit with a macular rash and lymphadenopathy. Lab tests reveal WBC count of 11,000, platelet count of 200,000, creatinine of 0.9, and the nontreponemal antibody test is positive. What should the nurse do next?

Explanation

•A positive nontreponemal test, along with a rash and lymphadenopathy are indicative of secondary syphilis. The physician should be notified immediately so proper treatment can be initiated.

•Syphilis infection during pregnancy can result in stillbirth, prematurity, and congenital syphilis.

•Increased fluid intake, dorsal recumbent position, and illicit drug use are unrelated to secondary syphilis and have no impact on treatment.

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