A nurse is caring for a client who had a stroke and is having difficulty swallowing. Which of the following referrals should the nurse make for the client?

Rationale for correct choices:

• Temperature 38.2° C (100.8° F): An elevated temperature in the postpartum period may indicate infection, particularly given the prolonged rupture of membranes and cesarean birth. Early recognition is essential to prevent progression to sepsis.
• Heart rate 104/min: Tachycardia can be an early sign of infection or postpartum hemorrhage. In combination with fever and elevated WBC, this warrants prompt evaluation.
• Client reports feeling unwell: The client’s report of illness is the first indicator of an ongoing disease process which warrants further evaluation, coupled by other findings, this indicates that there is something wrong.
• WBC count 33,000/mm³: This is markedly elevated beyond the normal postpartum range and indicates a possible systemic infection. This finding requires immediate intervention and notification of the provider.
• Fundus boggy but firmed with massage: A boggy uterus suggests uterine atony, which increases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Continuous monitoring is needed to prevent excessive blood loss.
• Moderate amount of dark brown, foul-smelling lochia: Foul-smelling lochia is a sign of endometritis or uterine infection. Early identification and treatment reduce the risk of sepsis and further complications.

Rationale for incorrect choices:

• Vital Signs Respiratory rate 18/min, BP 108/70 mm Hg, SaO₂ 97% on room air: This is within normal limits and does not indicate respiratory compromise at this time. Blood pressure is within normal postpartum range; no immediate intervention is needed. Oxygen saturation is adequate and does not require urgent follow-up.
• Breast firmness with moderate nipple discomfort: These findings are consistent with normal lactation and engorgement, and do not indicate an immediate complication.
• Surgical incision well-approximated with slight edema: Mild edema without redness or drainage is expected postoperatively and does not require immediate intervention.
• No bowel movement since birth, hypoactive bowel sounds: While monitoring is necessary for constipation, this is a common postpartum finding, especially after surgery and opioid use, and does not require urgent intervention.

Rationale:

A. "I will hang a pastel-colored mobile 24 inches above my baby's crib.": Newborns can only see objects clearly 8–12 inches away and are more attracted to bold patterns and contrasting colors. A mobile 24 inches away would be too far for visual stimulation.

B. "I will place a ticking clock nearby to soothe my baby throughout the day.": Rhythmic sounds, such as a ticking clock, can mimic the intrauterine environment and help calm newborns. This is an appropriate soothing technique for a 1-week-old.

C. "I will avoid picking up my baby too often to keep from spoiling him.": Holding and responding promptly to a newborn’s needs promotes bonding, emotional security, and healthy development. At this age, infants cannot be spoiled.

D. "I can use a firm pillow to prop up the bottle when feeding my baby.": Propping bottles increases the risk of choking, aspiration, and otitis media. Infants should always be held during feedings for safety and bonding.