A nurse is caring for a client who delivered by cesarean birth 6 hours ago.
The nurse notes a steady trickle of vaginal bleeding that does not stop with fundal massage. Which action should the nurse take?
Administer 500 mL lactated Ringer’s IV bolus.
Evaluate urinary output.
Apply an ice pack to the incision site.
Replace the surgical dressing.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
If a nurse notes a steady trickle of vaginal bleeding that does not stop with fundal massage after a cesarean birth, administering a 500 mL lactated Ringer’s IV bolus can help increase the client’s circulating volume and support her hemodynamic stability. This is often the first step in managing postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice B rationale
While evaluating urinary output is an important aspect of postoperative care, it would not directly address the issue of ongoing vaginal bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Applying an ice pack to the incision site can help reduce swelling and provide some pain relief, but it would not address the issue of vaginal bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Replacing the surgical dressing is part of routine postoperative care, but it would not directly address the issue of ongoing vaginal bleeding.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Aspirin is generally not recommended for postpartum pain management due to its anticoagulant properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Furthermore, if the mother is breastfeeding, aspirin can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.
Choice B rationale
Meperidine is a strong opioid medication that is typically reserved for severe pain. It is not usually the first choice for postpartum pain management due to its potential side effects and the risk of dependency.
Choice C rationale
Fentanyl citrate is a potent opioid that is typically used for severe pain and is often used in anesthesia. It is not usually used for routine postpartum pain management due to its potency and the risk of side effects and dependency.
Choice D rationale
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used for postpartum pain management. It is effective for relieving perineal pain and uterine cramping, and it is safe for use in breastfeeding mothers.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Dehydration could be a result of prolonged nausea and vomiting, but it is not the primary condition. Dehydration is a complication, not the cause of the symptoms.
Choice B rationale
The patient is most likely experiencing Hyperemesis Gravidarum, a severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It’s more extreme than the typical morning sickness experienced during pregnancy and can lead to weight loss and dehydration. The nurse should ensure the patient stays hydrated and monitor their weight. Antiemetic medications may be prescribed to help control the vomiting.
Choice C rationale
Gastroenteritis typically involves both vomiting and diarrhea, often accompanied by abdominal pain and fever. The patient’s symptoms do not indicate gastroenteritis.
Choice D rationale
Food poisoning is usually associated with consuming contaminated food or water and often involves symptoms such as abdominal cramps and diarrhea, which the patient does not report.
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