A nurse is caring for a client who is postpartum following a vaginal birth.
Which analgesic medication should the nurse plan to administer and document in the client’s medical record?
Aspirin
Meperidine
Fentanyl citrate
Ibuprofen
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Aspirin is generally not recommended for postpartum pain management due to its anticoagulant properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Furthermore, if the mother is breastfeeding, aspirin can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.
Choice B rationale
Meperidine is a strong opioid medication that is typically reserved for severe pain. It is not usually the first choice for postpartum pain management due to its potential side effects and the risk of dependency.
Choice C rationale
Fentanyl citrate is a potent opioid that is typically used for severe pain and is often used in anesthesia. It is not usually used for routine postpartum pain management due to its potency and the risk of side effects and dependency.
Choice D rationale
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used for postpartum pain management. It is effective for relieving perineal pain and uterine cramping, and it is safe for use in breastfeeding mothers.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering Oxytocin to the client is an important intervention for postpartum hemorrhage, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions which can help control bleeding, but it should be administered after the initial steps of assessing the uterus and ensuring it is firm.
Choice B rationale
Massaging the client’s fundus is the priority action to address excessive vaginal bleeding. A firm, well-contracted uterine fundus often helps to control postpartum bleeding. If the uterus is not well contracted, gentle massage is often sufficient to stimulate contractions. If the uterus does not respond to massage, then further interventions such as administering Oxytocin may be necessary.
Choice C rationale
Providing oxygen to the client via a non-rebreather face mask is an intervention that might be necessary if the client shows signs of hypoxia or shock as a result of the bleeding. However, it is not the first action that should be taken.
Choice D rationale
Emptying the client’s bladder is important as a distended bladder can displace the uterus and interfere with contractions, leading to increased bleeding. However, this is not the first action to take.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Pale, translucent skin is not typically a characteristic of a postterm newborn. Postterm newborns often have dry, peeling, loose skin.
Choice B rationale
Large deposits of subcutaneous fat are not usually seen in postterm newborns. In fact, these babies may appear abnormally thin, especially if the function of the placenta was severely reduced near the end of the pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
Nails extending over the tips of the fingers is indeed a common characteristic of postterm newborns. This is because the baby has had more time to grow in the womb.
Choice D rationale
A thin covering of fine hair on the shoulders and back is not typically seen in postterm newborns. This characteristic is more commonly associated with preterm babies.
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