A nurse is assessing a client who is 8 hour postpartum. Where should the nurse expect to find the fundus?
at the umbilicus
At a non-palpable depth
just above the symphysis pubis
just below the umbilicus
The Correct Answer is D
A) At the umbilicus:
After delivery, the fundus is typically located at or just below the umbilicus in the immediate postpartum period, but it will gradually descend over the next few days. By 8 hours postpartum, the fundus is often slightly below the umbilicus, not directly at the umbilicus. The fundus will continue to shrink in size and move downward toward the pelvic region as the uterus contracts and involutes.
B) At a non-palpable depth:
A fundus that is non-palpable is generally expected later in the postpartum period, typically by 10-14 days after delivery, as the uterus contracts and returns to its pre-pregnancy size. At 8 hours postpartum, the fundus is still palpable, generally just below the umbilicus, and should be evaluated for firmness and position.
C) Just above the symphysis pubis:
The fundus is usually higher than the symphysis pubis at 8 hours postpartum, as it is still in the process of descending from the higher position it occupied during pregnancy. It would be expected to be just below the umbilicus or about 1 to 2 finger widths below it. By the second or third day postpartum, the fundus begins to move lower toward the symphysis pubis as it continues to involute.
D) Just below the umbilicus:
Eight hours after delivery, the nurse should expect to palpate the fundus just below the umbilicus. This is a typical finding as the uterus begins to contract and shrink after the delivery of the placenta. The fundus will descend about 1-2 cm per day postpartum, so by 8 hours, it is usually just slightly below the level of the umbilicus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","E"]
Explanation
A) Fusion of labia in female genitalia:
Fusion of the labia in a female newborn is not an expected finding. This could indicate a condition such as labial adhesion or an abnormality in the development of the genitalia. Normally, the labia in a female newborn are separated. Any signs of fusion would require further evaluation by the healthcare provider.
B) Erythema toxicum on newborn's skin:
Erythema toxicum is a common and expected finding in newborns, usually appearing within the first 2–3 days of life. It consists of small, red papules or pustules on a red base, often described as a "flea-bitten" appearance. This rash is benign and resolves on its own within a few days to weeks. It is not associated with any infection or underlying health issues.
C) Hypospadias is noted in the male newborn:
Hypospadias, a condition where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis rather than at the tip, is not an expected finding in all newborn males. While it occurs in a small percentage of male infants, it is a congenital anomaly that would require further assessment and possibly surgical correction. It is not considered a normal finding in a newborn.
D) Presence of syndactyly in extremities:
Syndactyly, the condition where two or more fingers or toes are fused together, is not a normal finding in newborns. While it is a congenital anomaly that can occur in some infants, it is not expected and requires further evaluation and possibly surgical intervention depending on the severity.
E) Negative Ortolani sign:
A negative Ortolani sign is an expected and normal finding in a newborn. The Ortolani maneuver is used to assess for hip dislocation, and a negative result indicates that the hip is stable and not dislocated. If the Ortolani sign were positive, it would suggest the presence of a developmental hip dysplasia, which would require further diagnostic evaluation. A negative sign is considered typical and reassuring.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Decrease the heart rate of the fetus:
Lying on the left side can sometimes help improve fetal oxygenation, especially if there is a concern about reduced blood flow from compression of the inferior vena cava, which can occur when the mother lies on her back. However, the primary rationale for this position is to prevent supine hypotension, not specifically to decrease fetal heart rate. In fact, side-lying can promote better oxygen exchange, which can indirectly benefit the fetal heart rate.
B) Aid the women while she pushes:
While a left-side lying position may offer comfort during labor and can help with uterine positioning, it is not specifically intended to aid in the pushing phase. Positions such as squatting or hands-and-knees are generally more helpful during the pushing phase because they can facilitate effective pushing and help the baby descend into the birth canal. The left-side position is more about circulation and preventing hypotension.
C) Prevent supine hypertension:
Supine hypotension occurs when the pregnant woman lies flat on her back, which can compress the inferior vena cava and reduce blood return to the heart. This leads to a drop in blood pressure and can compromise both maternal and fetal circulation. The left-side position is recommended because it helps to prevent this compression and allows optimal blood flow to both the mother and fetus, improving oxygenation and circulation.
D) Prevent the client from falling out of bed:
While lying on the left side may make the woman feel more stable, the primary reason for this position is to prevent supine hypotension, not to prevent her from falling out of bed. The nurse would ensure safety by using appropriate bed rails and monitoring, but the primary concern is supporting optimal circulation, not preventing falls.
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