A nurse is caring for a client who has a placenta previa.

Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

The correct answer is choice C. Holding the client’s eyes shut for a few seconds.

This is because the eyes of a deceased client do not close naturally and may remain open after death. Holding them shut for a few seconds helps to keep them closed and prevent drying of the corneas.

This also gives a more peaceful appearance to the client’s body for the family visit.

Choice A is wrong because crossing the client’s arms across their chest is not a standard postmortem care procedure. It may also interfere with the placement of identification tags on the wrists.

Choice B is wrong because placing the client in a high-Fowler’s position is not necessary or appropriate for postmortem care. The client should be placed in a supine position with the head of the bed elevated to prevent livor mortis (purple discoloration of the skin) on the face.

Choice D is wrong because removing the client’s dentures from their mouth is not recommended for postmortem care. The dentures should be left in place to maintain the shape of the face and prevent the jaw from dropping.

Normal ranges are not applicable for this question as it does not involve any physiological measurements.

The correct answer is B.

Choice A reason: Completing oral hygiene is important for overall health, especially for individuals with cystic fibrosis, as they are at a higher risk for dental problems due to thick mucus that can harbor bacteria. However, oral hygiene does not have a direct impact on the effectiveness of postural drainage. Postural drainage is a technique used to clear mucus from the lungs, and while maintaining oral hygiene is beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for this procedure.

Choice B reason: Using a bronchodilator, such as an ibuterol inhaler, is recommended before postural drainage because it helps to open the airways, making the procedure more effective. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, which can become constricted in conditions like cystic fibrosis. This relaxation allows for easier clearance of mucus during postural drainage.

Choice C reason: Pancrelipase is an enzyme supplement used to aid digestion in patients with cystic fibrosis, who often have pancreatic insufficiency. While taking pancrelipase is crucial for nutrient absorption, it is not specifically related to the respiratory treatment of postural drainage. Therefore, it is not necessary to take pancrelipase immediately before this procedure.

Choice D reason: Eating a meal before postural drainage is not recommended. The procedure involves placing the body in positions that facilitate the drainage of mucus from the lungs due to gravity. Having a full stomach can cause discomfort, increase the risk of vomiting, and may hinder the effectiveness of the drainage. It is best to perform postural drainage when the stomach is empty, either before meals or at least 1.5 hours after eating.