A nurse is caring for a client who is 3 days postpartum in the postpartum unit.
A nurse is caring for a client who is 3 days postpartum. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Obtain a prescription for a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Initiate airborne isolation precautions.
Place the client on strict bedrest.
Instruct the client to stop breastfeeding.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Obtain a prescription for a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
The client's fever (38.5°C), chills, abdominal pain, malodorous lochia, and tender fundus suggest a potential postpartum infection, such as endometritis. Administering a broad-spectrum antibiotic is necessary to treat the infection. Given the clinical scenario, the nurse should prioritize addressing the client's symptoms and signs that suggest infection and support her well-being postpartum. Here's a breakdown of the appropriate actions:
B. Initiate airborne isolation precautions.
- Not necessary in this case. The client's symptoms and signs do not suggest an airborne infectious disease.
C. Place the client on strict bedrest.
- This is not necessary. While rest is important, strict bedrest may not be required and could increase the risk of other complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
D. Instruct the client to stop breastfeeding.
- Not necessary unless there is a specific contraindication. Instead, the nurse can provide support and advice on managing engorgement and breastfeeding difficulties.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A hematoma presents as a localized collection of blood outside the blood vessels, causing a purplish discoloration and swelling, often resulting from trauma during delivery.
Choice B rationale
Retained placental fragments may cause postpartum hemorrhage and infection but would not present as a localized purplish swelling on the perineum.
Choice C rationale
A laceration would involve a tear in the tissue, causing bleeding and pain, but not necessarily a purplish discoloration with localized swelling unless associated with a hematoma.
Choice D rationale
Ecchymosis refers to bruising but is typically a more diffuse discoloration rather than a localized swelling and purplish area as seen with a hematoma.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Uterine contractions occur more frequently than every 15 minutes during the active phase of labor, typically every 2-3 minutes.
Choice B rationale
A fetal heart rate baseline of 166/min is considered tachycardia and may not be normal during labor.
Choice C rationale
Late decelerations are concerning and not expected as they may indicate fetal distress.
Choice D rationale
Contractions lasting about 75 seconds are expected during the active phase of labor.
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