A nurse is assisting in the care of a client who is experiencing a postpartum hemorrhage.

Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

The nurse should inform the client that they can use an adhesive remover when changing the colostomy skin barrier. Adhesive removers are helpful in gently removing the adhesive residue left behind by the previous ostomy appliance. This can make the process of changing the colostomy skin barrier more comfortable for the client and help prevent skin irritation or damage.

Explanation for the other options:

a. "You should scrub the skin around the colostomy when cleaning." Scrubbing the skin around the colostomy can be harsh and may cause skin irritation or damage. It is recommended to clean the peristomal skin gently using mild soap and water, followed by thorough drying.

c. "You will need a device to suction stool from the colostomy bag." Suctioning stool from the colostomy bag is not a routine procedure for colostomy care. Colostomy bags are designed to collect stool, and emptying the bag as needed is the appropriate method of management.

d. "You should empty the colostomy bag when it is three-fourths full." The timing of emptying the colostomy bag may vary for each individual. It is generally recommended to empty the colostomy bag when it is one-third to one-half full to prevent leakage or discomfort. The client should be educated on monitoring the bag and emptying it as necessary based on their own output and comfort level.

Restlessness is a common sign that a client's pain is not adequately relieved. When a client experience unrelieved pain, they may find it difficult to get comfortable and may exhibit restlessness, such as frequently changing positions, fidgeting, or appearing agitated. It is important for the nurse to assess the client's pain level and address any concerns regarding pain management.

While difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), constipation, and urinary retention can be potential side effects or complications associated with spinal epidural anesthesia, they are not specific indicators of unrelieved pain. These findings may be related to the effects of the anesthesia itself or other factors, and they should still be assessed and addressed by the nurse. However, restlessness is more directly linked to the experience of pain and should be recognized as an important sign that the client's pain relief measures may need adjustment.