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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(a) "You will need to receive a medroxyprogesterone acetate injection once per month."
Medroxyprogesterone acetate injections (Depo-Provera) are administered every three months (every 12 weeks), not monthly. This statement is incorrect and could lead to confusion about the correct usage of this contraceptive method.
(b) "Combined estrogen-progestin contraceptive pills cause longer periods."
Combined estrogen-progestin contraceptive pills typically result in shorter, lighter, and more regular periods, rather than longer ones. This statement is incorrect and misrepresents the effects of combined oral contraceptives on menstrual cycles.
(c) "Oral contraceptives decrease the risk for endometrial cancer."
This statement is correct. Oral contraceptives, particularly those containing both estrogen and progestin, are known to decrease the risk of endometrial cancer. This is an important benefit of using oral contraceptives and is a factual statement that should be included in the teaching.
(d) "You will need to have your diaphragm replaced every 4 years."
A diaphragm typically needs to be replaced every 2 years, not every 4 years. Additionally, a diaphragm should be refitted if there are significant changes in weight, childbirth, or abdominal/pelvic surgery. This statement is incorrect regarding the replacement timeline.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
(a) Pedal edema
Pedal edema, or swelling of the feet and ankles, is a common finding during pregnancy due to increased fluid retention and pressure on the lower extremities from the growing uterus. While pedal edema should be monitored, it is not typically a concerning finding unless it is severe or accompanied by other symptoms suggestive of preeclampsia.
(b) BP of 132/84 mm Hg
A blood pressure of 132/84 mm Hg is within the normal range for pregnancy. However, if the client's blood pressure continues to increase or is accompanied by other symptoms of hypertension, such as proteinuria or headaches, it may warrant further evaluation.
(c) Weight gain of 1 kg (2.2 lb)
Weight gain during pregnancy is expected and can vary from person to person and from week to week. A weight gain of 1 kg (2.2 lb) over the course of a month is within the normal range for pregnancy and may not require immediate reporting to the provider unless there are other concerning symptoms.
(d) Double vision
Double vision (diplopia) can be a symptom of several conditions, including preeclampsia, which is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria. Double vision can also be caused by other neurological or ophthalmologic conditions. Given its potential association with preeclampsia and other serious conditions, the nurse should promptly report double vision to the provider for further evaluation and management.
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