A nurse in a clinic is caring for a client who is 3 weeks postpartum following the birth of a healthy newborn. The client reports feeling "down” and sad, having no energy, and wanting to cry.
Which of the following is a priority action by the nurse?
Assist the family to identify prior use of positive coping skills in family crises.
Ask the client if she has considered harming her newborn.
Anticipate a prescription by the provider for an antidepressant.
Reinforce postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Assisting the family in identifying prior coping skills is a valuable nursing intervention, but it is not the priority action in this situation. The client's feelings of sadness and lack of energy raise concerns about postpartum depression, and the nurse should address potential harm to the newborn first.
Choice B rationale:
This is the priority action by the nurse. The client's symptoms are indicative of postpartum depression, and the nurse must assess if she has considered harming her newborn. This assessment is crucial for the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Choice C rationale:
Anticipating a prescription for an antidepressant may be appropriate once a proper assessment and diagnosis are made, but it is not the priority action at this stage. Assessing for potential harm to the newborn takes precedence.
Choice D rationale:
Reinforcing postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching is essential for the client's well- being. However, it is not the priority action when the client is showing signs of postpartum depression and possible harm to the newborn.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Before an amniocentesis, it is essential for the client to empty their bladder. A full bladder can interfere with the procedure, as it may obstruct the needle's entry into the uterus and increase the risk of accidental bladder puncture.
Choice B rationale:
Nothing by mouth (NPO) for 4 hours is not necessary for an amniocentesis. It is a relatively simple and quick procedure that does not require fasting.
Choice C rationale:
Ingesting 3 liters of water is not indicated before an amniocentesis. While some ultrasound examinations may require a full bladder, this is not the case for an amniocentesis.
Choice D rationale:
Nipple stimulation is not relevant or necessary before an amniocentesis. Nipple stimulation can trigger uterine contractions, which might be undesirable before the procedure, especially if the client is not in labor.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should report a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 35 mg/dL to the provider. BUN measures the amount of nitrogen in the blood and is used to assess kidney function. An elevated BUN can indicate impaired renal function, which is a concern in preeclampsia, as it may signify reduced blood flow to the kidneys.
Choice B rationale:
Hemoglobin (Hgb) level of 15 mg/dL is within the normal range for pregnancy (normal range: 11-15 g/dL), so there is no need to report it to the provider.
Choice C rationale:
Bilirubin level of 0.6 mg/dL is within the normal range (normal range: 0.2-1.3 mg/dL), so there is no need to report it to the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Hematocrit (Hct) level of 37% is within the normal range for pregnancy (normal range: 33- 45%), so there is no need to report it to the provider.
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