A nurse is caring for a client 2 hr following a spontaneous vaginal delivery and notes that the client has saturated two perineal pads with blood in a 30-min period. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Check the consistency of the client's uterine fundus.
Have the client use the bedpan to urinate.
Increase the client's fluid intake.
Prepare to administer oxytocic medication.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Checking the consistency of the client's uterine fundus is the first action the nurse should take, as it can indicate the cause of excessive bleeding. A boggy or soft fundus indicates uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should massage the fundus until it becomes firm and contracted.
Choice B reason:
Having the client use the bedpan to urinate is an important action, as a full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate source of bleeding.
Choice C reason:
Increasing the client's fluid intake is an important action, as it can help replace fluid loss and prevent hypovolemia and shock. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not stop the bleeding.
Choice D reason:
Preparing to administer oxytocic medication is an important action, as it can stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it requires a provider's prescription and may not be necessary if fundal massage is effective.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A warm sitz bath can promote healing and comfort, but it is not recommended until 24 hr after delivery, as it can increase swelling and bleeding.
Choice B reason:
An ice pack can reduce inflammation and pain by causing vasoconstriction and numbing the area. It should be applied for 20 minutes at a time, with a cloth barrier between the skin and the ice.
Choice C reason:
A soft pillow under the client's butocks can increase pressure on the perineum and worsen the pain. The client should be encouraged to lie on her side or sit in a semi-Fowler's position.
Choice D reason:
A heating lamp can dry out the wound and delay healing. It can also cause burns and discomfort. It should be avoided for episiotomy care.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: "Babies know instinctively exactly how much of the nipple to take into their mouth." is incorrect, as this response does not provide adequate guidance or support for the client. Babies may not always latch on correctly or effectively, especially in the first few atempts. The nurse should teach the client how to position and latch the baby properly and observe for signs of effective breastfeeding.
Choice B reason: "Your baby's mouth is rather small so she will only take part of the nipple." is incorrect, as this response can lead to ineffective breastfeeding and nipple trauma. Taking only part of the nipple can cause poor milk transfer, inadequate milk production, and nipple soreness or cracking. The nurse should teach the client how to ensure that the baby takes enough of the nipple and areola into their mouth.
Choice C reason: "Try to place the nipple, the entire areola, and some breast tissue beyond the areola into her mouth." -Including too much breast tissue can be uncomfortable. While some areola is important, including too much breast tissue can hinder proper latch and milk flow.
Choice D reason: "You should place your nipple and some of the areola into her mouth." This accurately describes the ideal latch for breastfeeding. Including some of the areola helps the baby latch deeply and comfortably, promoting milk transfer and preventing feeding difficulties and nipple soreness.
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