A nurse is caring for a client who reports unrelieved episiotomy pain 8 hr following a vaginal birth. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should ask the client if they are taking over-the-counter medications because ibuprofen is also available over-the-counter. It is important to know if the client is already taking ibuprofen or any other non-prescription pain relievers to avoid potential drug interactions or overdosing.

Choice B rationale:

The nurse should inquire about the client's history of gastric problems because ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding. If the client has a history of gastric ulcers or other gastric issues, the nurse may need to consider an alternative pain relief option.

Choice C rationale:

The question about contraception is not directly related to administering ibuprofen for postpartum cramping. It is essential to provide adequate pain relief, but the method of contraception the client plans to use is not relevant to the administration of the medication.

Choice D rationale:

This question is pertinent because NSAIDs like ibuprofen can cause fluid retention and potentially worsen hypertension.

Choice E rationale:

The presence of cataracts is not relevant to the administration of ibuprofen for postpartum cramping. Cataracts are a concern with eye health and are not associated with taking this pain medication.

Choice A rationale:

This would be incorrect advice. Increasing dietary fiber is commonly recommended during pregnancy to prevent constipation, but it does not address stress incontinence.

Choice B rationale:

This is a correct choice. Kegel exercises are beneficial during pregnancy to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can help manage stress incontinence.

Choice C rationale:

This would be incorrect advice. Restricting daily fluid intake during pregnancy is generally not recommended as it can lead to dehydration and is unlikely to improve stress incontinence.

Choice D rationale:

This is another correct choice. Caffeine is a bladder irritant and can worsen stress incontinence, so reducing caffeine intake can be helpful.

Choice E rationale:

This would be incorrect advice. Regular exercise during pregnancy is generally encouraged unless there are specific medical reasons to avoid it. Avoiding daily exercise is not the appropriate approach to manage stress incontinence.