A nurse is caring for a client who is 4 hr postpartum. The nurse finds a small amount of lochia rubra on the client's perineal pad. The fundus is midline and firm at the umbilicus. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Increase the rate of IV fluids.
Assist the client to ambulate.
Perform fundal massage.
Check for blood under the client's buttock.
The Correct Answer is D
Check for blood under the client's buttock. This is because lochia rubra is the normal vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and tissue from the placenta and the uterus lining. It is usually heavy for the first three to four days and can pool under the client's buttocks if they are lying down. Checking for blood under the buttock can help assess the amount of bleeding and prevent complications such as infection or hemorrhage.
The other choices are not correct for the following reasons:
A. Increasing the rate of the IV fluids is not necessary because the client's fundus is firm and midline, indicating that the uterus is contracting well and preventing excessive bleeding.
B. Assisting the client to ambulate is not advisable because it can increase the lochia flow and cause fainting or dizziness due to blood loss.
C. Performing fundal massage is not indicated because the fundus is already firm and midline, meaning that the uterus is adequately contracted. Massaging a firm fundus can cause pain and discomfort to the client.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This can be from the sudden withdrawal of your hormones. It's not a cause for alarm. This is because newborn female babies may have a little bloody vaginal discharge in their diaper due to the withdrawal of maternal hormones after delivery. This usually stops as the hormones return to normal levels¹².
Choice B is wrong because the baby does not need an appointment for this condition.
Choice C is wrong because the mother does not need to watch her baby for this condition.
Choice D is wrong because the blood is not related to cleaning her perineal area.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The Moro reflex was elicited. This is because the Moro reflex is a normal newborn reflex that occurs when the baby is startled by a loud noise or a sudden movement. The baby responds by extending the arms and legs, opening the hands, and then bringing the arms and legs back to the chest.
The Moro reflex is present at birth and disappears by 3 to 6 months of age.
Choice B is wrong because this is not abnormal for a full-term infant. The Moro reflex is a sign of a healthy nervous system and brain development.
Choice C is wrong because there is no evidence of an abnormality in the musculoskeletal system. The Moro reflex does not indicate any problems with the bones or muscles of the baby.
Choice D is wrong because the full-term infant should react to sudden movement. The Moro reflex is a protective response that helps the baby cling to the mother in case of danger.
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