A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 day postpartum and is taking a sitz bath. To determine the client's tolerance of the procedure, which of the following assessments should the nurse perform?
Bladder distention.
Pulse rate.
Respiratory rate.
Color of lochia.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Assessing for bladder distention is important for postpartum clients, especially those who have undergone perineal trauma during childbirth. However, it is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. The sitz bath is usually done to promote healing and comfort, and monitoring pulse rate takes precedence to identify any adverse reactions.
Choice B rationale:
Pulse rate should be the priority assessment during a sitz bath for a postpartum client. Sitz baths can cause vasodilation, leading to a potential drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, or dizziness. Monitoring the pulse rate helps identify any cardiovascular changes or adverse reactions.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory rate is not the priority assessment during a sitz bath. It is essential to monitor, but it is less likely to be affected directly by the sitz bath compared to the pulse rate and cardiovascular changes.
Choice D rationale:
Monitoring the color of lochia is essential for assessing postpartum bleeding and uterine healing. However, during a sitz bath, the priority assessment should be focused on cardiovascular changes and any adverse reactions the client might experience.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
An axillary temperature of 36.5°C (97.7°F) is within the normal range for a newborn. Normal axillary temperature for a newborn is typically between 36.5°C to 37.5°C (97.7°F to 99.5°F).
Choice B rationale:
This is the correct choice. Nasal flaring in a newborn is a concerning sign and may indicate respiratory distress. It suggests that the baby is having difficulty breathing and should be reported to the provider for further evaluation.
Choice C rationale:
A heart rate of 158/min is within the normal range for a newborn. The normal heart rate for a newborn can range from 100 to 160 beats per minute.
Choice D rationale:
Having one void since birth is not a concerning finding for a 10-hour-old newborn. In the early hours of life, the frequency of voids may vary, but the baby should have an increasing number of wet diapers in the following days.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should first massage the client's fundus to address the excessive vaginal bleeding. Massaging the fundus helps the uterus contract and prevents further bleeding. Excessive postpartum bleeding may indicate uterine atony, which is a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should apply gentle pressure to the fundus to promote uterine contractions and reduce bleeding.
Choice A rationale:
Elevating the client's legs to a 30° angle (Trendelenburg position) is not the priority action in this situation. Fundal massage takes precedence because it directly addresses the cause of the excessive bleeding. While Trendelenburg position might be used in some situations to increase blood flow to vital organs, it is not the first-line intervention for postpartum bleeding.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority action for excessive vaginal bleeding. While monitoring urine output is essential, the immediate concern is controlling the bleeding by massaging the fundus.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating an infusion of oxytocin may be indicated if fundal massage alone is insufficient to control bleeding. However, massaging the fundus should be the first action taken to promote uterine contractions. Oxytocin can be administered afterward, if needed, under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today