A mother inquires about what to use when changing her newborn’s diaper. What should the nurse recommend to this mother?

Choice A rationale

A pudendal block is a type of anesthesia that results in a loss of sensation confined to the vagina and perineum. It’s often used during the second stage of labor or for episiotomy repair.

Choice B rationale

A paracervical block provides anesthesia to the cervix and the lower part of the uterus, but it does not specifically target the vagina and perineum.

Choice C rationale

An epidural block provides a band of numbness from the bellybutton to the upper legs, allowing the patient to be awake and alert throughout labor. It’s not confined to the vagina and perineum.

Choice D rationale

A saddle block is a type of spinal anesthesia that numbs the inner thighs, buttocks, and area around the rectum (the “saddle” area), but it’s not confined to the vagina and perineum.

Choice A rationale

While monitoring the client’s vital signs is an important part of postpartum care, it would not directly address the issue of a boggy uterus that is displaced above and to the right of the umbilicus.

Choice B rationale

Notifying the healthcare provider is important, but it would not be the first action to take. The nurse should first attempt to address the issue.

Choice C rationale

Inspecting the perineal pad could provide information about the client’s postpartum bleeding, but it would not directly address the issue of a boggy uterus that is displaced above and to the right of the umbilicus.

Choice D rationale

Encouraging the client to void is the correct action. A full bladder can displace the uterus, preventing it from contracting properly. By emptying the bladder, the uterus may be able to contract and return to its normal position.