A nurse is caring for a client who is pregnant.

Exhibits

Drag words from the choices below to fill in each blank in the following sentence.

The client is at greatest risk for developing

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and

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.

Findings Requiring Immediate Follow-Up:

Temperature 38.2 °C (100.8 °F): Fever in the postpartum period can indicate an infection such as endometritis or mastitis. Any temperature ≥100.4 °F (38 °C) after the first 24 hours postpartum warrants further evaluation.

Client states breasts feel firm, heavy, and warm with moderate nipple discomfort while breastfeeding: These are signs of engorgement or mastitis, a localized breast infection. Warmth, firmness, and nipple discomfort, especially with fever, need prompt assessment to prevent systemic infection.

Uterus firm at 1 cm above the umbilicus and tender to palpation: A tender, enlarged uterus suggests uterine infection or subinvolution, particularly in combination with foul-smelling lochia or fever. Requires immediate evaluation.

Moderate amount of dark brown, foul-smelling lochia: Foul-smelling lochia is a classic sign of endometritis, which can become life-threatening if untreated. This finding in conjunction with fever and uterine tenderness is urgent.

WBC count 33,000/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³): Marked leukocytosis indicates a systemic inflammatory or infectious response. In postpartum clients, a WBC this high, especially with fever and uterine tenderness, suggests postpartum infection requiring immediate intervention.

Findings Not Requiring Immediate Follow-Up

Heart rate 104/min: Mild tachycardia is expected postpartum, especially with mild fever, pain, or anemia. Not immediately concerning alone.

Respiratory rate 18/min: Within normal limits for an adult (12–20/min).

BP 108/70 mmHg: Normal postpartum blood pressure; does not indicate acute compromise.

Hemoglobin 11.1 g/dL: Within acceptable postpartum range (>11 g/dL), not indicative of acute bleeding or anemia.

Rationale:

A. Closed-ended questions restrict expression and hinder understanding of the root cause. Open-ended questions encourage communication and collaboration.

B. Allowing defensive responses escalates tension and prevents constructive resolution. The goal is to promote respectful dialogue, not defensiveness.

C. Gathering individual information ensures all perspectives are heard and accurately represented. This helps the manager identify underlying causes, misunderstandings, or emotional concerns before facilitating a joint discussion.

D. Passive listening (such as nodding without engagement) is ineffective in conflict management. Active listening—demonstrating understanding and paraphrasing key points—is necessary for effective resolution.