A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postpartum.
The client is a Gravida 4 Para 3 who had a forceps-assisted birth with epidural anesthesia at 40 weeks of gestation. She had a second degree mediolateral perineal laceration with repair, and the placenta was manually extracted.
The estimated blood loss was 600 mL. Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client’s progress.

Choice A rationale
When the fetal head is at 3+ station, it means that the baby’s head has moved down the birth canal and is very close to the vaginal opening. At this stage, the nurse should observe for crowning, which is when the widest part of the baby’s head can be seen at the vaginal opening. This is a critical time during labor, and the nurse needs to be prepared for the delivery of the baby.
Choice B rationale
Applying fundal pressure is not recommended as it can cause complications such as uterine rupture, fetal distress, and maternal discomfort. It is also not necessary when the fetal head is at 3+ station as the baby is already moving down the birth canal.
Choice C rationale
Oxytocin is a hormone that can stimulate uterine contractions. However, it is not necessary to prepare to administer oxytocin when the fetal head is at 3+ station. At this stage, the mother’s body is already effectively progressing through labor.
Choice D rationale

Observing for the presence of a nuchal cord, which is when the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby’s neck, is important throughout labor. However, it is not the primary action the nurse should take when the fetal head is at 3+ station.

Choice A rationale
The client understanding the importance of monitoring their incision for signs of infection, such as discharge, indicates effective teaching. It is crucial for the client to report any changes to their healthcare provider promptly.
Choice B rationale
Having a fever during the first week at home is not a normal postoperative symptom and could indicate an infection. Therefore, this statement does not indicate effective teaching.
Choice C rationale

Resting in a recliner until the incision is healed is not necessary. While it’s important for the client to rest and recover after surgery, they should also engage in light physical activity, such as walking, to promote circulation and prevent complications such as blood clots.
Choice D rationale
The client should not have unrelieved pain in their abdomen. Persistent pain could indicate a complication, such as an infection or a hematoma. Therefore, this statement indicates effective teaching.