A nurse is assisting with the care of a postpartum client who delivered vaginally 8 hr ago.
Select the 3 findings that require immediate follow-up.
Blood pressure 136/86 mm Hg
Peripheral edema 2+ bilateral lower extremities
Lateral deviation of the uterus
Breasts soft
Pain rating of 3 on a scale of 0 to 10
Uterine tone soft
Large amount of lochia rubra
Deep tendon reflexes 1+
Correct Answer : C,F,G
A. Blood pressure 136/86 mm Hg
- The blood pressure reading is slightly elevated but not critically high. Postpartum hypertension can be a concern, but this level does not indicate an immediate risk.
- This reading is consistent with the earlier measurement, suggesting stability.
- Immediate follow-up is not required unless there is a significant increase or additional symptoms are present.
B. Peripheral edema 2+ bilateral lower extremities
- Edema is common in the postpartum period due to fluid shifts and should resolve naturally.
- The consistent 2+ rating indicates no acute change.
- Monitoring is appropriate, but it does not require immediate follow-up unless it worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms.
C. Lateral deviation of the uterus
- A laterally deviated uterus can indicate a displaced uterus, possibly due to a full bladder or other reasons, which requires prompt attention.
- The deviation from the firm, midline position noted earlier could suggest an underlying issue that needs immediate investigation.
- This finding could lead to complications if not addressed promptly.
D. Breasts soft
- Soft breasts are normal postpartum when milk has not yet come in or if the client is not breastfeeding.
- There is no change from the earlier assessment.
- This does not require immediate follow-up as it is a normal finding.
E. Pain rating of 3 on a scale of 0 to 10
- A pain rating of 3 is mild and manageable, especially considering it was 2 earlier.
- This slight increase in pain is expected and can be monitored with routine care.
- It does not necessitate immediate follow-up unless there is a sudden and significant increase in pain.
F. Uterine tone soft
- A soft uterine tone postpartum can indicate uterine atony, which can lead to hemorrhage.
- The change from a previously firm uterus to a soft one is concerning.
- Immediate follow-up is necessary to prevent potential complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.
G. Large amount of lochia rubra
- A large amount of lochia rubra can be a sign of excessive bleeding.
- The increase from a moderate amount earlier to a large amount could indicate a hemorrhagic complication.
- This finding requires immediate follow-up to assess for postpartum hemorrhage.
H. Deep tendon reflexes 1+
- A deep tendon reflex of 1+ is considered within normal limits.
- There has been no change from the earlier assessment.
- This finding does not require immediate follow-up as it is a normal finding.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Blood pressure 156/80 mm Hg is incorrect. While this blood pressure reading is elevated, hypertension is not a typical immediate sign of postpartum hemorrhage. Hemorrhage is more commonly associated with hypotension (low blood pressure) due to fluid loss.
B. Temperature 38.3° C (101° F) is incorrect. A mild fever may be common in the first 24 hours postpartum due to normal inflammatory responses. It is not specifically indicative of postpartum hemorrhage, though a persistent fever could indicate an infection.
C. Respiratory rate 32/min is correct. An increased respiratory rate can be a sign of hypovolemia (due to significant blood loss), which may occur with postpartum hemorrhage. The body compensates for decreased blood volume by increasing the respiratory rate.
D. Apical pulse 66/min is incorrect. A heart rate of 66/min is within normal limits and would not be indicative of postpartum hemorrhage. In fact, a tachycardic (elevated) heart rate is more concerning in the case of hemorrhage as the body tries to compensate for blood loss.
Correct Answer is C,E,A,B,D
Explanation
1. Wrap a warm, moist cloth around the heel to dilate the blood vessels, which makes it easier to obtain the blood sample.
2. Cleanse the heel with an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection at the puncture site.
3. Puncture the heel and collect the blood, ensuring that the sample is adequate for the test.
4. Apply pressure with a dry gauze pad to stop the bleeding from the puncture site.
5. Cover the heel with an adhesive bandage to protect the area and minimize the risk of infection.
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