A nurse is caring for a client who had a vaginal delivery 4 hr ago and reports perineal pain of 6 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Offer an ice pack to the client during the first 24 hr.
Apply a corticosteroid cream to the perineal area twice daily.
Increase the client's fluid intake for 48 hr.
Catheterize the client's bladder.
The Correct Answer is A
(a) Offer an ice pack to the client during the first 24 hr.
Offering an ice pack is an appropriate intervention for managing perineal pain and swelling in the immediate postpartum period. Ice helps to reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing pain relief. This is a standard recommendation for managing perineal pain after vaginal delivery.
(b) Apply a corticosteroid cream to the perineal area twice daily.
Applying a corticosteroid cream is not typically recommended for perineal pain immediately after delivery. These creams are generally used for inflammatory skin conditions and not for the acute management of perineal pain and swelling after childbirth.
(c) Increase the client's fluid intake for 48 hr.
While maintaining adequate hydration is important for overall recovery, increasing fluid intake specifically does not address the client's perineal pain. This intervention would not provide immediate pain relief for the perineal area.
(d) Catheterize the client's bladder.
Catheterizing the bladder is not a standard intervention for perineal pain. It is typically done if the client has urinary retention or difficulty voiding, not for managing pain. This action would not directly alleviate the perineal pain the client is experiencing.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(A) Lie in a left side lying position for 30 min after meals:
While lying on the left side can sometimes help alleviate heartburn, it's generally recommended to elevate the head and upper body during sleep, especially if heartburn worsens at night. Lying down immediately after meals can actually exacerbate heartburn symptoms.
(B) Drink a cup of black coffee before breakfast:
Drinking black coffee can exacerbate heartburn symptoms due to its acidic nature and caffeine content. It is not recommended for individuals experiencing frequent heartburn, especially during pregnancy.
(C) Take sips of milk between meals:
Taking sips of milk between meals can help neutralize stomach acid and provide temporary relief from heartburn symptoms. However, it's essential to avoid drinking large quantities of milk at once, as this can lead to increased stomach acid production.
(D) Eat three large meals per day:
Eating large meals can increase pressure on the stomach and exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Instead of consuming three large meals, it's better to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help prevent heartburn.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
(A) Urination urgency and frequency:
Increased urgency and frequency of urination are common discomforts during the first trimester of pregnancy. This occurs due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder, which reduces its capacity.
(B) Tingling in the fingers:
Tingling in the fingers, also known as carpal tunnel syndrome, is more commonly associated with the later stages of pregnancy when fluid retention is more pronounced. It is not typically a common discomfort during the first trimester.
(C) Round ligament pain:
Round ligament pain is more common in the second trimester when the uterus is growing rapidly and the ligaments supporting it stretch. This type of pain usually manifests as sharp, shooting pain in the lower abdomen or groin.
(D) Perineal discomfort and pressure:
Perineal discomfort and pressure are more common in the later stages of pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as the baby descends into the pelvis and prepares for birth. It is not typically a discomfort experienced during the first trimester.
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