A nurse is assessing a client for pain following a cesarean birth 24 hours ago. Which should the nurse ask to determine if a PRN pain medication is needed?
Have you noticed any swelling in your feet?
Do you notice increased cramping with breastfeeding?
Do you have any leakage from your incision?
Are you able to pass gas?
The Correct Answer is B
The correct answer is choice b. Do you notice increased cramping with breastfeeding?
Choice A rationale: Swelling in the feet is not directly related to the need for PRN pain medication following a cesarean birth. Swelling can be a common postpartum symptom due to fluid retention and changes in blood chemistry, but it does not specifically indicate pain that requires medication.
Choice B rationale: Increased cramping with breastfeeding is a common occurrence due to the release of oxytocin, which causes uterine contractions. This can be quite painful and may necessitate PRN pain medication to manage the discomfort.
Choice C rationale: Leakage from the incision could indicate a complication such as infection or wound dehiscence. While this is a serious concern that requires medical attention, it is not directly related to the typical pain management needs following a cesarean birth.
Choice D rationale: The ability to pass gas is an important indicator of the return of bowel function after surgery, but it is not directly related to the need for PRN pain medication. It is more relevant to assessing gastrointestinal recovery rather than pain levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Taking a multivitamin daily is generally recommended during pregnancy to ensure the mother and baby receive necessary nutrients. It does not indicate a need for referral to a dietitian.
Choice B rationale
A weight gain of 4.5 kg (10 lb) since a positive pregnancy test could be a concern depending on the timeframe. If this weight gain occurred rapidly, it could indicate issues such as fluid retention or inadequate nutrition, which would warrant a referral to a dietitian.
Choice C rationale
Nausea, particularly in the morning, is a common symptom of early pregnancy often referred to as “morning sickness”. It does not typically require dietary intervention unless it is severe (hyperemesis gravidarum), leading to weight loss and dehydration.
Choice D rationale
Eating prunes is a natural method to manage constipation, a common issue during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that slow digestion. This choice does not indicate a need for a dietitian referral.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing the client with a cool sitz bath can help soothe the perineal area, reduce inflammation, and promote healing after a fourth-degree laceration.
Choice B rationale
Administering methylergonovine IM is typically used for the prevention and treatment of postpartum or post-abortion hemorrhage caused by uterine atony or subinvolution. It would not directly address the care of a fourth-degree perineal laceration.
Choice C rationale
Applying a moist, warm compress to the perineum can provide some relief from discomfort, but a cool compress or sitz bath is typically recommended initially after a perineal laceration to help reduce swelling.
Choice D rationale
Applying povidone-iodine to the client’s perineum after she voids is not typically part of the care for a fourth-degree perineal laceration. The area should be kept clean, but routine application of antiseptics is not usually necessary.
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