A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is 3 hours postpartum and reports complete saturation of their perineal pad in the past 30 minutes. Which of the following actions is the highest priority?
Perform fundal massage
Weigh the perineal pad
Apply oxygen by face mask
Monitor urine output
The Correct Answer is A
(A) Perform fundal massage:
Performing fundal massage is the highest priority action in this scenario. Complete saturation of the perineal pad within 30 minutes postpartum suggests excessive bleeding, which could indicate postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Fundal massage helps to stimulate uterine contractions, which can aid in controlling bleeding by compressing blood vessels at the placental site. It is essential to assess the fundus for firmness and position and massage it if necessary, to prevent or manage PPH.
(B) Weigh the perineal pad:
Weighing the perineal pad can provide information about the amount of blood loss, but it is not the highest priority action at this moment. Fundal massage takes precedence to address the potential underlying cause of excessive bleeding.
(C) Apply oxygen by face mask:
While oxygen therapy may be indicated in certain situations, such as respiratory distress, it is not the highest priority in this scenario. The priority is to address the potential cause of excessive bleeding and prevent further complications associated with postpartum hemorrhage.
(D) Monitor urine output:
Monitoring urine output is an important aspect of postpartum care, but it is not the highest priority when the client is experiencing excessive bleeding. Addressing the potential cause of bleeding and preventing complications associated with postpartum hemorrhage take precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(a) Avoid swaddling the newborn:
Swaddling is actually beneficial for newborns experiencing neonatal abstinence syndrome. It helps provide comfort and security, reducing irritability and promoting better sleep.
(b) Minimize holding the newborn:
Minimizing holding is not recommended. Holding and gentle handling are important as they provide comfort and can help soothe the newborn. Skin-to-skin contact and gentle rocking are beneficial practices for these infants.
(c) Decrease environmental noise:
Decreasing environmental noise is a key intervention for newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome. These newborns are often hypersensitive to stimuli, and reducing noise helps create a calming environment that can reduce stress and overstimulation.
(d) Avoid using a pacifier:
Using a pacifier can be helpful for soothing a newborn experiencing neonatal abstinence syndrome. Sucking on a pacifier can provide comfort and help with self-regulation, reducing irritability and distress.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
(A) Increased fundal height:
Hyperemesis gravidarum, severe nausea, and vomiting during pregnancy, typically does not cause an increased fundal height. Fundal height may be normal or even decreased due to dehydration and weight loss.
(B) Poor skin turgor:
Poor skin turgor is a common finding in clients with hyperemesis gravidarum due to dehydration. Excessive vomiting leads to fluid loss and dehydration, resulting in poor skin elasticity and turgor.
(C) Decreased pulse rate:
Hyperemesis gravidarum usually results in dehydration and hypovolemia, which can lead to an increased heart rate rather than a decreased pulse rate. The body compensates for decreased fluid volume by increasing the heart rate to maintain adequate circulation.
(D) Proteinuria:
Proteinuria, the presence of abnormal amounts of protein in the urine, is not typically associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. Proteinuria can be a sign of kidney dysfunction or other medical conditions but is not directly related to severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.