A nurse is admitting a client who experienced a vaginal birth 2 hours ago. The client is receiving an IV of lactated Ringer's with 25 units of oxytocin infusing and has large rubra lochia. Vital signs include blood pressure 146/94 mm Hg, pulse 80/min, and respiratory rate 18/min. The nurse reviews the prescriptions from the provider. Which of the following prescriptions requires clarification?
Methylergonovine 0.2 mg IM now.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Obtain laboratory study of prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time.
Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 5 L/min.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice a reason:
Methylergonovine is a medication used to prevent or control postpartum hemorrhage by contracting the uterus. However, it is contraindicated in patients with hypertension, as it can further increase blood pressure. Given that the client's blood pressure is already elevated at 146/94 mm Hg, administering methylergonovine could pose a risk. Therefore, this prescription requires clarification from the provider before administration.
Choice b reason:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter can be a standard procedure after vaginal birth if the client is unable to void or if accurate measurement of urine output is needed. This does not require clarification unless there are specific contraindications or the client's condition does not warrant it.
Choice c reason:
Obtaining a laboratory study of prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time is a common practice to assess the blood's clotting ability, especially if there is a concern for bleeding disorders or if the client is at risk for postpartum hemorrhage. This prescription is clear and does not require further clarification.
Choice d reason:
Administering oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 5 L/min may be indicated if the client is showing signs of respiratory distress or hypoxia. The client's current respiratory rate is within normal limits, but if there are concerns about oxygenation, this intervention would be appropriate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice a reason:
While there is always a risk of introducing infection with an internal examination, this is not the primary concern with placenta previa. Infections are a risk with any invasive procedure, but the precautions taken during a typical internal examination minimize this risk.
Choice b reason:
Initiating preterm labor is a concern with any manipulation of the cervix or uterus during pregnancy. However, at 37 weeks, the pregnancy is considered early-term, and the risk of preterm labor is not the primary concern in the context of placenta previa.
Choice c reason:
The primary reason for avoiding an internal examination in a client with placenta previa is the risk of profound bleeding. With placenta previa, the placenta covers part or all of the cervix. An internal examination could disturb the placenta and lead to significant hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening for both the mother and the fetus.
Choice d reason:
While there is a risk of rupturing the membranes during an internal examination, this is not the primary concern with placenta previa. The main issue is the potential for causing significant bleeding due to the placenta's location over the cervix.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: When a client in active labor presents with hypotension, as indicated by a blood pressure reading of 82/52 mm Hg, the priority nursing intervention is to assist the client to turn onto her side. This position helps to alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, which can be compressed by the gravid uterus, thereby improving venous return and increasing blood pressure. It also enhances uteroplacental perfusion, providing better oxygenation to the fetus.
Choice B reason: While preparation for a cesarean birth may be necessary if there are signs of fetal distress or if the hypotension does not resolve, it is not the first-line intervention for isolated hypotension without other indications.
Choice C reason: Preparing for an immediate vaginal delivery is not the priority action in response to hypotension. The focus should be on stabilizing the mother's blood pressure to ensure safe delivery, whether vaginal or cesarean.
Choice D reason: Assisting the client to an upright position is not advisable in the case of hypotension, as this can further decrease venous return to the heart and exacerbate the low blood pressure.
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