A nurse is assessing a client for postpartum infection. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the client requires further evaluation for endometritis?
Pelvic pain
Hematuria
A localized area of breast tenderness
A moderate amount of dark red lochia with a foul odor
The Correct Answer is A
Choice a) reason: Pelvic pain is a common symptom of endometritis. The pain is typically located in the lower abdomen and may be associated with uterine tenderness upon physical examination. This symptom, especially when combined with other signs such as fever and foul-smelling lochia, strongly suggests the need for further evaluation for endometritis.
Choice b) reason: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is not a typical symptom of endometritis. While it could be a sign of other postpartum complications, such as urinary tract infections or bladder injury during childbirth, it does not directly indicate endometritis.
Choice c) reason: A localized area of breast tenderness is more indicative of a breast infection, such as mastitis, especially if associated with breastfeeding. It is not a symptom of endometritis, which affects the uterus and not the breasts.
Choice d) reason: While foul-smelling lochia can be a sign of endometritis, the key is the presence of a foul odor. A moderate amount of dark red lochia alone, without a foul odor, is a normal finding in the immediate postpartum period. It's the transition from rubra (red) to serosa (pink/brown) to alba (yellow/white) that is expected as the uterus heals.
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:
Using a cotton-tipped swab to clean a newborn's nares can be dangerous. It can push debris further into the nose, cause mucosal damage, bleeding, or even introduce germs. Instead, the nurse should advise the mother to use a bulb syringe for gentle suction if necessary.
Choice B Reason:
Leaving the yellow exudate on the circumcision site is actually recommended. This exudate is part of the normal healing process and does not need to be removed. It acts as a natural barrier to infection and will clear up as the circumcision heals.
Choice C Reason:
Cleaning the umbilical cord with tap water is generally considered safe and can help keep the area clean. However, the nurse should ensure that the mother dries the area thoroughly afterward to prevent moisture from promoting bacterial growth.
Choice D Reason:
Cleaning the newborn's eyes from the inner canthus outwards is the correct technique. It prevents contamination from the outer part of the eye to the inner part and helps to clear any discharge or debris effectively.
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