A nurse is assessing a client who gave birth 12 hr ago and is experiencing excessive vaginal bleeding. Which of the following findings indicates the client is experiencing decreased cardiac output?

Choice A rationale:

Assessing for bladder distention is important for postpartum clients, especially those who have undergone perineal trauma during childbirth. However, it is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. The sitz bath is usually done to promote healing and comfort, and monitoring pulse rate takes precedence to identify any adverse reactions.

Choice B rationale:

Pulse rate should be the priority assessment during a sitz bath for a postpartum client. Sitz baths can cause vasodilation, leading to a potential drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or dizziness. Monitoring the pulse rate helps identify any cardiovascular changes or adverse reactions.

Choice C rationale:

Respiratory rate is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. It is essential to monitor, but it is less likely to be affected directly by the sitz bath compared to the pulse rate and cardiovascular changes.

Choice D rationale:

Monitoring the color of lochia is essential for assessing postpartum bleeding and uterine healing. However, during a sitz bath, the priority assessment should be focused on cardiovascular changes and any adverse reactions the client might experience.

Choice A rationale:

Current guidelines recommend that women aged 21 to 29 have a Pap test every three years, and those aged 30 to 65 can either have a Pap test every three years or a Pap plus HPV (human papillomavirus) test every five years. After age 65, and with a history of normal results, Pap tests may be discontinued.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should not include choice B, "Pap tests are discontinued following removal of the ovaries,” in the teaching. The presence or absence of ovaries does not affect the need for Pap testing. The Pap test is primarily used to screen for cervical cancer, and its necessity is determined based on age and previous screening results, not on ovarian status.

Choice C rationale:

Patients are advised to avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or using vaginal medications for 24 hours before the test to ensure accurate results.

Choice D rationale:

The nurse should not include choice D, "Viral infections can be detected by a Pap test,” in the teaching. The Pap test is not designed to detect viral infections. Instead, it is used to detect abnormal cervical cells, which may indicate pre-cancerous or cancerous changes.