A nurse is caring for a 25-year-old female client in an antepartum unit.

Exhibits

For each assessment finding, click to specify if the finding is consistent with preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Each client finding may support more than one disease process or none at all. There must be at least one selection in every column. There does not need to be a selection in every row

Note: Each category must have at least one response option selected.

Choice A rationale

A hematoma presents as a localized collection of blood outside the blood vessels, causing a purplish discoloration and swelling, often resulting from trauma during delivery.

Choice B rationale

Retained placental fragments may cause postpartum hemorrhage and infection but would not present as a localized purplish swelling on the perineum.

Choice C rationale

A laceration would involve a tear in the tissue, causing bleeding and pain, but not necessarily a purplish discoloration with localized swelling unless associated with a hematoma.

Choice D rationale

Ecchymosis refers to bruising but is typically a more diffuse discoloration rather than a localized swelling and purplish area as seen with a hematoma.

Reproductive System

1. Assist with breastfeeding techniques to ensure proper latch: This is correct because the client is breastfeeding and proper latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding and preventing nipple pain or damage.
2. Educate the client on signs of postpartum depression and provide resources for support: This is correct because postpartum depression can occur, and educating the client about its signs and providing resources for support is essential.
3. Administer antibiotics to prevent infection at the incision site: This is incorrect because there is no indication of an infection at the episiotomy site. Administering antibiotics without signs of infection is not necessary.
4. Encourage the client to take hot baths to relieve perineal pain: This is incorrect because hot baths are not recommended postpartum due to the risk of introducing bacteria to the perineal area. Instead, sitz baths with warm water are typically recommended.

Circulatory System

1. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly: This is correct because monitoring vital signs is essential postpartum to detect any potential complications such as hypertension or postpartum hemorrhage.
2. Encourage early ambulation to prevent thromboembolism: This is correct because early ambulation helps prevent the formation of blood clots, which is a risk postpartum.
3. Administer diuretics to reduce fluid retention: This is incorrect because there is no indication that the client has excessive fluid retention. Diuretics are not typically used postpartum unless there is a specific medical indication.
4. Restrict fluid intake to prevent hypertension: This is incorrect because restricting fluid intake is not an appropriate intervention postpartum. Adequate hydration is important for recovery and breastfeeding.

Respiratory System

1. Encourage deep breathing exercises and use of an incentive spirometer: This is correct because these exercises help prevent respiratory complications such as atelectasis and promote lung expansion.
2. Monitor oxygen saturation levels and respiratory rate: This is correct because monitoring respiratory status is essential to ensure the client is not experiencing any respiratory distress.
3. Administer bronchodilators to improve lung function: This is incorrect because there is no indication that the client has respiratory issues that require bronchodilators.
4. Place the client in a supine position to promote lung expansion: This is incorrect because the supine position does not promote lung expansion effectively. Instead, the client should be positioned with the head of the bed elevated.