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 A
Explanation
(A) Urination urgency and frequency:
Increased urgency and frequency of urination are common discomforts during the first trimester of pregnancy. This occurs due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder, which reduces its capacity.
(B) Tingling in the fingers:
Tingling in the fingers, also known as carpal tunnel syndrome, is more commonly associated with the later stages of pregnancy when fluid retention is more pronounced. It is not typically a common discomfort during the first trimester.
(C) Round ligament pain:
Round ligament pain is more common in the second trimester when the uterus is growing rapidly and the ligaments supporting it stretch. This type of pain usually manifests as sharp, shooting pain in the lower abdomen or groin.
(D) Perineal discomfort and pressure:
Perineal discomfort and pressure are more common in the later stages of pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as the baby descends into the pelvis and prepares for birth. It is not typically a discomfort experienced during the first trimester.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
(a) "I should place my baby in the car seat at a 90-degree angle."
The baby should not be placed in the car seat at a 90-degree angle. Instead, the car seat should be reclined at a 30- to 45-degree angle to keep the baby's airway open and reduce the risk of suffocation.
(b) "I will place a thick, soft pad behind my baby's back."
Using a thick, soft pad behind the baby’s back is not recommended because it can interfere with the harness system and compromise the safety of the car seat. Only products that come with the car seat or are specifically designed for it should be used.
(c) "I can turn the car seat so it faces forward when my baby weighs 15 pounds."
The car seat should remain rear-facing until the child reaches the maximum weight or height limit allowed by the car seat manufacturer, which is typically around 2 years of age or longer. Turning the car seat to face forward at just 15 pounds is too early and not safe.
(d) "I will place the retainer clip at the level of my baby's armpits."
This is correct. The retainer clip should be positioned at the level of the baby's armpits. This placement ensures that the harness straps are properly positioned over the baby's shoulders and chest, providing optimal protection in the event of a crash.
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.