A nurse is caring for a client who has placenta previa. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement for this client? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A rationale:

Rh incompatibility occurs when an Rh-negative client is exposed to Rh-positive fetal blood, typically during a prior pregnancy or delivery. The client’s immune system produces anti-Rh antibodies that cross the placenta in subsequent pregnancies, attacking the Rh-positive red blood cells of the fetus. This hemolysis releases bilirubin, leading to hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn.

Choice B rationale:

Rh incompatibility only occurs when the client is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive. An Rh-positive client will not form antibodies against an Rh-negative fetus, as their immune system recognizes the Rh factor as normal.

Choice C rationale:

This choice is not related to the mechanism of Rh incompatibility. Receiving a transfusion with Rh-negative blood would not cause the mother's immune system to produce anti-Rh antibodies or lead to Rh incompatibility with her newborn.

Choice D rationale:

This choice describes the ABO blood group system, not the Rh factor. ABO incompatibility can occur when a mother with blood type O (producing anti-A and anti-B antibodies) has a newborn with blood type A, B, or AB, leading to hemolysis of the fetal red blood cells. However, the question specifically mentions Rh incompatibility, which involves the Rh factor, not the ABO system.

The correct answer is A. Apply an ice pack to the affected area. Ice packs are recommended during the first 24 hours after birth to decrease swelling and help with pain.

Choice A reason: Applying an ice pack to the episiotomy site helps reduce swelling and provides pain relief. This is the standard care within the first 24 hours postpartum.

Choice B reason: A warm sitz bath is generally recommended after the first 24 hours following birth. It is not the best immediate action for unrelieved pain shortly after delivery.

Choice C reason: While maintaining cleanliness with a squeeze bottle of antiseptic solution is important for preventing infection, it does not provide the immediate pain relief needed for unrelieved episiotomy pain.

Choice D reason: Heat application, such as placing a hot pack, is not advised within the first 24 hours postpartum because it can increase the risk of swelling and bleeding.