A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a vaginal birth 12 hr ago.
The nurse recognizes the client is in the dependent, taking in phase of maternal postpartum adjustment.
Which of the following findings should the nurse expect during this phase?.

The correct answer is choice D.

Choice A rationale:

Washing the cord daily with mild soap and water is not recommended as it can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.

Choice B rationale:

Applying petroleum jelly to the cord stump is not recommended as it can create a moist environment that promotes bacterial growth.

Choice C rationale:

The diaper should be folded down to keep the cord stump dry and exposed to air, which promotes healing.

Choice D rationale:

Giving a sponge bath until the cord stump falls off is recommended to keep the area dry and prevent infection.

The correct answers are choices B, E, and F.

Choice A rationale:

Nausea with vomiting during the first trimester is a common symptom of pregnancy and does not need to be reported immediately to the health care provider.

Choice B rationale:

Sudden leakage of fluid during the second trimester could indicate premature rupture of membranes, which can lead to infection and preterm labor. This should be reported immediately.

Choice C rationale:

Urinary frequency in the third trimester is a common symptom of pregnancy due to the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder.

Choice D rationale:

Backache during the second trimester is a common symptom of pregnancy as the body adjusts to the growing uterus.

Choice E rationale:

Lower abdominal pain with shoulder pain in the first trimester could indicate an ectopic pregnancy, which is a medical emergency and should be reported immediately.

Choice F rationale:

Headache with visual changes in the third trimester could indicate preeclampsia, a serious condition that can lead to seizures, stroke, and other complications. This should be reported immediately.