A nurse is assessing a client who is 4 hours postpartum following a vaginal delivery. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Fundus at the level of the umbilicus
Deep tendon reflexes 4+
Saturated perineal pad in 30 minutes
Approximated edges of the episiotomy
None
None
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Fundus at umbilicus is expected 4 hours postpartum, indicating normal uterine involution. No abnormal bleeding or uterine atony is implied, so it’s not a priority concern.
Choice B rationale: Deep tendon reflexes 4+ are hyperactive and signal increased neuromuscular irritability, placing the client at high risk for seizures due to preeclampsia. Immediate magnesium sulfate therapy may be required.
Choice C rationale: Saturated pad in 30 minutes suggests heavy lochia but is not yet classified as hemorrhage. Requires monitoring, but seizure risk from preeclampsia is more immediately life-threatening.
Choice D rationale: Approximated episiotomy edges indicate proper healing and no infection or dehiscence. This is a normal finding and does not require urgent intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should first assess the fundus of the uterus. If the uterus is not firm (boggy), it may not be contracting well enough to compress the blood vessels and stop the bleeding. The nurse should massage the fundus until it is firm.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placing the client in a lateral position can help improve blood flow to the uterus and placenta, which can help stabilize the client’s blood pressure and the fetal heart rate.
Choice B rationale
Monitoring vital signs every 5 minutes is important, but the priority action is to address the client’s low blood pressure, which can compromise blood flow to the fetus.
Choice C rationale
Elevating the client’s legs can help increase venous return and improve blood pressure, but it is not the priority action in this situation.
Choice D rationale
Notifying the provider is important, but the nurse should first take action to stabilize the client’s condition.
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