A nurse is caring for a client who is 12 hours postpartum following a vaginal delivery. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Fundus soft, 1 cm to the right of the umbilicus.
Fundus firm, at the level of the umbilicus.
Fundus soft, 2 cm above the umbilicus.
Fundus present, to the left of the umbilicus.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice a reason:
The fundus being soft and to the right of the umbilicus could indicate that the bladder is full and displacing the uterus. This is not an expected finding and would require the nurse to encourage the client to empty her bladder to help the uterus contract and return to its normal position.
Choice b reason:
The expected finding for a client who is 12 hours postpartum is for the fundus to be firm and at the level of the umbilicus. A firm fundus indicates good uterine tone and that the uterus is contracting as it should to return to its pre-pregnancy size. This helps to prevent excessive bleeding and promotes recovery.
Choice c reason:
A fundus that is soft and 2 cm above the umbilicus is not an expected finding at 12 hours postpartum. This could suggest that the uterus is not contracting properly, which could lead to postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse would need to assess further and possibly provide interventions such as fundal massage or medication to encourage uterine contractions.
Choice d reason:
The fundus being present to the left of the umbilicus may indicate that the uterus is not contracting symmetrically or that there is a full bladder displacing the uterus. This finding would prompt the nurse to assess for bladder distention and encourage the client to void to help the uterus contract properly.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Precipitous labor is characterized by a labor that progresses rapidly and ends within three hours of its onset. It is not typically associated with painless, bright red vaginal bleeding. This condition is more likely to present with intense, frequent contractions and a rapid change in cervical dilation. Therefore, precipitous labor is not the correct answer in this scenario.
Choice B reason:
Abruptio placentae, also known as placental abruption, is a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterus before delivery. It can cause significant maternal and fetal complications. The classic presentation includes painful bleeding, uterine tenderness, and contractions. Given that the scenario describes painless bleeding, abruptio placentae is less likely to be the correct diagnosis.
Choice C reason:
Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta covers the cervix partially or completely. The hallmark sign of placenta previa is painless, bright red vaginal bleeding, which aligns with the scenario provided. This bleeding can occur spontaneously or be triggered by intercourse or a medical exam. Placenta previa is a serious condition that can lead to maternal and fetal hemorrhage and warrants immediate medical attention. Based on the information provided, placenta previa is the most likely diagnosis for the client described.
Choice D reason:
Threatened abortion refers to vaginal bleeding that occurs in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, which may indicate a potential miscarriage. Since the client is at 36 weeks gestation, threatened abortion is not a relevant diagnosis for late-term bleeding. Additionally, threatened abortion is often accompanied by abdominal cramping, which is not mentioned in the scenario.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Urinary frequency typically begins early in pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased blood volume leading to more fluid being processed by the kidneys and ending up in the bladder. While it often improves in the second trimester as the uterus rises into the abdominal cavity, poor bladder tone is not typically cited as a reason for its continuation.
Choice B reason:
While urinary frequency can be seen as a minor inconvenience, it should not be ignored. It is a normal physiological change during pregnancy. However, if it is accompanied by pain, burning, or any other symptoms, it could indicate a urinary tract infection, which requires medical attention.
Choice C reason:
There is some predictability to urinary frequency in pregnancy. It often starts in the first trimester, improves in the second, and may return in the third trimester as the growing baby and uterus exert pressure on the bladder.
Choice D reason:
This choice is accurate. Urinary frequency is common in the first trimester due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus pressing on the bladder. It often returns in the third trimester when the baby "drops" and the head presses on the bladder. This is a normal part of pregnancy and usually does not indicate any complications.
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