A nurse is caring for a client who gave birth 2 hr ago. The nurse notes that the client's blood pressure is 60/50 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Obtain a type and crossmatch.
Administer oxytocin infusion.
Initiate oxygen therapy by nonrebreather mask.
Evaluate the firmness of the uterus.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Obtaining a type and crossmatch is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a preparatory step for blood transfusion, which may or may not be needed. The nurse should first identify the cause and severity of the hypotension, and initiate immediate interventions to stop the bleeding and restore the circulation.
Choice B reason: Administering oxytocin infusion is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a pharmacological intervention that requires a prescription and an assessment of the uterine tone and bleeding. The nurse should first evaluate the firmness of the uterus and massage it if needed, to stimulate the contraction and retraction of the uterine muscle.
Choice C reason: Initiating oxygen therapy by nonrebreather mask is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a supportive intervention that aims to improve the oxygen delivery to the tissues and organs. The nurse should first address the underlying cause of the hypotension, which is most likely postpartum hemorrhage, and prevent further blood loss and shock.
Choice D reason: Evaluating the firmness of the uterus is the first action that the nurse should take, as it can help determine the source and extent of the bleeding, and guide the subsequent interventions. The nurse should palpate the fundus and check the lochia, and report any signs of uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Polyuria is not an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia, as it can indicate dehydration, diabetes, or renal impairment. A client with severe preeclampsia may have oliguria, which is a urine output of less than 500 mL in 24 hours, due to the decreased renal perfusion and function.
Choice B reason: Report of headache is an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia, as it can indicate increased intracranial pressure, cerebral edema, or vasospasm. A client with severe preeclampsia may also have other neurological symptoms, such as blurred vision, scotoma, photophobia, or hyperreflexia.
Choice C reason: Tachycardia is not an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia, as it can indicate dehydration, infection, anxiety, or fetal distress. A client with severe preeclampsia may have bradycardia, which is a heart rate of less than 60 beats per minute, due to the increased vagal tone and blood pressure.
Choice D reason: Absence of clonus is not an expected finding in a client with severe preeclampsia, as it can indicate normal or decreased neuromuscular irritability. A client with severe preeclampsia may have positive clonus, which is a rhythmic jerking of the foot when the ankle is dorsiflexed, due to the increased reflex excitability and hyperactivity.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Assisting the client with transferring to the gynecology unit is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it does not address the client's emotional needs or preferences. The nurse should first assess the client's coping and grieving process, and provide support and comfort.
Choice B reason: Offering the mother private time with the newborn is the first action that the nurse should take, as it can facilitate the bonding and closure process, and help the client express her feelings and emotions. The nurse should respect the client's wishes and cultural beliefs regarding the viewing and holding of the stillborn infant, and provide a quiet and private environment.
Choice C reason: Administering alprazolam 0.5 mg PO is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it is a pharmacological intervention that requires a prescription and an assessment of the client's condition and history. The nurse should first use nonpharmacological methods, such as active listening, therapeutic communication, and counseling, to help the client cope and manage her anxiety and grief.
Choice D reason: Contacting the health care facility's clergy is not the first action that the nurse should take, as it may not be appropriate or desired by the client. The nurse should first ask the client if she wants any spiritual or religious support, and respect her decision and beliefs.
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