A nurse is admitting a client who experienced a vaginal birth 2 hr 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?
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 5 L/min.
Methylergonovine 0.2 mg IM now.
Obtain laboratory study of prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time.
The Correct Answer is C
Answer: C. Methylergonovine 0.2 mg IM now.
A. Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter can be appropriate in a postpartum client, especially if there are concerns about bladder distension, which can inhibit uterine contraction and increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. This action does not require clarification.
B. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 5 L/min.
Although oxygen is commonly delivered at higher rates (10-15 L/min) via a nonrebreather mask, the administration of oxygen at 5 L/min is not harmful. This may be based on the client’s current oxygen needs, but the flow rate might warrant a review.
C. Methylergonovine 0.2 mg IM now.
Methylergonovine is used to control postpartum hemorrhage, but it is contraindicated in clients with hypertension. This client has elevated blood pressure (146/94 mm Hg), and administering methylergonovine could further increase the risk of hypertensive complications. Therefore, this prescription requires clarification due to the risk of hypertensive crisis.
D. Obtain laboratory study of prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time.
Ordering coagulation studies such as prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is appropriate, especially in a postpartum client with heavy bleeding, to assess clotting status and rule out any coagulation disorders. This prescription does not require clarification.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Answer: B, C, D, E
Rationale:
A) Massage a firm fundus: If the fundus is already firm, routine massage is not necessary. Instead, the nurse should monitor the fundus for firmness and position. Massaging is indicated only if the fundus is boggy or atonic to promote uterine contraction.
B) Determine whether the fundus is midline: Checking the position of the fundus is essential to assess for potential complications. A fundus that is not midline could indicate bladder distention, which can interfere with uterine contraction and lead to postpartum hemorrhage.
C) Document fundal height: Documenting the height of the fundus is important for monitoring uterine involution. The fundus should be at the level of the umbilicus 1-2 hours postpartum, and any deviation from expected findings should be noted for ongoing assessment.
D) Observe the lochia during palpation of fundus: Observing lochia during fundal assessment helps identify potential complications such as excessive bleeding or clots. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor lochia in conjunction with fundal assessment to ensure appropriate postpartum recovery.
E) Administer methylergonovine maleate if the uterus is boggy: Methylergonovine is indicated for uterine atony (a boggy uterus) to promote uterine contractions and reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. If the fundus is found to be boggy during assessment, administration of this medication should be anticipated.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B) Poor sucking:
Following a vacuum-assisted delivery, poor sucking can indicate potential neurological issues or birth trauma. It could suggest problems with cranial nerve function or other underlying conditions that need further evaluation by the provider.
A) Soft, edematous area on the scalp:
A soft, edematous area on the scalp is a common finding after a vacuum-assisted delivery due to the pressure exerted by the vacuum cup. This finding is expected and usually resolves without intervention.
C) Facial edema:
Facial edema is a common occurrence after a vacuum-assisted delivery due to the pressure exerted by the vacuum cup on the baby's face during delivery. It usually resolves within a few days without intervention.
D) Blue coloring of the hands and feet:
Blue coloring of the hands and feet, known as acrocyanosis, is a common finding in newborns and is not typically a cause for concern. It often resolves within a few hours to days after birth and does not require immediate intervention.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.