A nurse is assisting a client out of bed for the first time since delivery. The client becomes frightened when she passes a large amount of lochia.
Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
'Lochia can pool in the vagina while you lie in bed.'
'You might have retained fragments of your placenta.'
'The amount of lochia increases during the postpartum period.'
'Urinary tract infections are associated with increased lochia.'
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the most appropriate response because it reassures the client that the amount of lochia she passed is normal and expected after lying down for a long time. Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue. It usually decreases in amount and changes in color over time, from red to pink to brown to yellow.
Choice B reason: This is an incorrect response because it implies that the client has a complication that requires further evaluation. Retained placental fragments can cause excessive bleeding, infection, and uterine atony. The nurse should not alarm the client with this possibility without evidence.
Choice C reason: This is an incorrect response because it contradicts the normal patern of lochia. The amount of lochia usually decreases during the postpartum period, not increases. If the client has an increase in lochia, it could indicate a problem such as infection, subinvolution, or hemorrhage.
Choice D reason: This is an incorrect response because it confuses the client with unrelated information. Urinary tract infections are not associated with increased lochia. They are caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract and can cause symptoms such as dysuria, frequency, urgency, and hematuria. The nurse should not suggest that the client has a urinary tract infection without evidence.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Inform the client that she can go to the bathroom whenever needed is incorrect, as this action can put the client at risk of injury or complications. The client may experience orthostatic hypotension, dizziness, weakness, or bleeding after a vaginal birth, which can impair their ability to ambulate safely and independently. The nurse should assist the client to the bathroom and monitor their vital signs and lochia.
Choice B reason: This is the correct action. The nurse should assess the client for any residual effects of analgesia, such as dizziness or unsteadiness, which could increase the risk of falls if the client tries to get up.
Choice C reason: Advise the client to remain in bed for the next few hours is incorrect, as this action can increase the risk of bladder distension, infection, or thrombosis. The nurse should encourage and assist the client to ambulate early and frequently after a vaginal birth, as long as there are no contraindications. The nurse should also monitor the client for signs of orthostatic hypotension and provide support as needed.
Choice D reason: While assisting the client is a good approach, it is important to first evaluate her condition to ensure it is safe for her to get out of bed. If she has been assessed and is deemed safe to ambulate, assisting her to the bathroom with support might be appropriate. However, the initial step is to assess her condition.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Checking the consistency of the client's uterine fundus is the first action the nurse should take, as it can indicate the cause of excessive bleeding. A boggy or soft fundus indicates uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should massage the fundus until it becomes firm and contracted.
Choice B reason:
Having the client use the bedpan to urinate is an important action, as a full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate source of bleeding.
Choice C reason:
Increasing the client's fluid intake is an important action, as it can help replace fluid loss and prevent hypovolemia and shock. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not stop the bleeding.
Choice D reason:
Preparing to administer oxytocic medication is an important action, as it can stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it requires a provider's prescription and may not be necessary if fundal massage is effective.
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