A client is admitted to the postpartum unit and tells the nurse she had rheumatic fever as a child, which resulted in some "heart damage." The nurse knows that this client is at particular risk for developing heart failure during the immediate postpartum period. Based on this client's history, which nursing problem has the highest priority?
Sleep deprivation.
Fluid volume excess
Nausea and vomiting
Risk for infection.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Sleep deprivation:
While sleep is important for overall well-being, it may not be the top priority in this case. Fluid volume excess, given the client's cardiac history, poses a more immediate threat to health.
B. Fluid volume excess:
Clients with heart damage are prone to heart failure, and managing fluid balance is crucial. Excess fluid can worsen cardiac function, making this the priority concern.
C. Nausea and vomiting:
While nausea and vomiting are significant concerns, they might not be as directly related to the client's cardiac history as fluid volume excess. However, if severe, it could contribute to fluid imbalance.
D. Risk for infection:
Infection is a concern for postpartum clients, but in this case, the client's history of rheumatic fever and heart damage takes precedence. The priority is to prevent complications related to heart failure.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Document the findings in the record: Documenting the findings is important, but it doesn't address the potential issue of hypoglycemia.
B. Obtain a heel stick blood glucose level: This is the most appropriate action given the signs presented. A low blood glucose level can be a critical issue in newborns and requires prompt evaluation and management.
C. Place a pulse oximeter on the heel: While oxygen saturation monitoring is valuable in certain situations, it may not be the priority in this case where hypoglycemia is suspected.
D. Swaddle the infant in a warm blanket: While maintaining warmth is important, especially if the baby is hypothermic, addressing the potential hypoglycemia takes precedence.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Estimated amount of fluid:
Knowing the estimated amount of amniotic fluid can provide some information, but it may not be as crucial as other factors in this situation. The primary concern is often related to the color and odor of the amniotic fluid to assess for potential issues.
B. Color and consistency of fluid:
This is a crucial piece of information. The color and consistency of amniotic fluid can provide important clues about fetal well-being and the presence of meconium, which may indicate fetal distress.
C. Time the membranes ruptured:
Knowing the time when the membranes ruptured is essential for assessing the duration of time since the rupture. This information helps in determining the risk of infection, which is a concern after prolonged rupture of membranes.
D. Any odor noted when membranes ruptured:
This is also a critical piece of information. An unpleasant odor, especially if it is foul-smelling, could be indicative of infection. Infection risk increases with prolonged rupture of membranes.
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