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. Insert a Foley catheter with a urimeter to monitor hourly output: This is a reasonable intervention because magnesium sulfate can affect renal function, and monitoring urinary output is essential. However, there's a more critical intervention to consider first.
B. Have calcium gluconate immediately available: This is the highest priority. Magnesium sulfate toxicity can lead to neuromuscular blockade, and calcium gluconate is the antidote. Having it readily available is crucial in case signs of magnesium toxicity (such as loss of deep tendon reflexes) appear.
C. Provide a quiet environment with subdued lighting: While maintaining a calm environment is generally important for clients on magnesium sulfate, it is not the highest priority in this situation.
D. Assess deep tendon reflexes (DTRs) every 4 hours: This is an important part of monitoring for magnesium sulfate toxicity. However, the immediate availability of calcium gluconate is the highest priority in case toxicity occurs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. After ceasing breastfeeding, the diaphragm should be resized: Breastfeeding can affect vaginal lubrication and elasticity. It might be advisable to have the diaphragm refitted after childbirth and after breastfeeding stops. However, this choice doesn't directly address the current situation.
B. Use an alternate form of contraception until a new diaphragm is obtained: This is a reasonable suggestion. Using a diaphragm that was fitted before pregnancy might not offer adequate protection due to potential changes in the cervix's size or shape after childbirth.
C. If no more than 20 pounds were gained during pregnancy, the diaphragm is safe to use: Weight gain during pregnancy can affect the size and shape of the vagina and cervix. However, specifying a particular weight gain as a safety criterion for using the diaphragm isn't entirely accurate.
D. Avoid intercourse during ovulation until the size of the diaphragm has been evaluated: This is a cautious approach. Waiting until the diaphragm size is confirmed by a healthcare professional could be prudent to ensure the correct fit and effectiveness.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today