A nurse is caring for a postpartum client who had a vaginal delivery with an episiotomy.
Which action would help prevent infection of the perineal area?
Applying ice packs to the perineum for the first 24 hours.
Changing the perineal pad from back to front every 2 hours.
Spraying warm water over the perineum after each voiding or bowel movement.
Using an inflatable ring or pillow to sit on for comfort.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is C. Spraying warm water over the perineum after each voiding or bowel movement. This action would help prevent infection of the perineal area by keeping it clean and reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
A is wrong because ice packs can only help reduce swelling and pain, but not prevent infection.
B is wrong because changing the pad from back to front can introduce bacteria from the rectum to the vagina and perineum, increasing the risk of infection. The correct way is to change the pad from front to back.
D is wrong because an inflatable ring or pillow can increase blood flow to the perineal area and delay healing, which can increase the risk of infection.
A firm surface is better for sitting after delivery.
Some other preventive measures for postpartum infections include washing hands before touching the perineal area, using only maxi pads and not tampons for postpartum bleeding, taking preventive antibiotics if prescribed, and contacting a doctor if symptoms of infection appear.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C. You should drink plenty of fluids and eat high-fiber foods.This will help you prevent constipation and ease your bowel movements, which can be painful after an episiotomy.
Choice A is wrong because you should not avoid taking sitz baths until your stitches dissolve.Sitz baths can help reduce the pain, swelling, and bruising around the wound area.
However, you should consult your doctor before taking a sitz bath.
Choice B is wrong because you should not change your perineal pad from back to front.This can introduce bacteria into your wound and increase the risk of infection.You should change your perineal pad from front to back and use a squirt bottle filled with warm water to cleanse the area every time you use the bathroom.
Choice D is wrong because you should not resume sexual intercourse as soon as you feel comfortable.You should wait until your wound is fully healed and your bleeding has stopped, which may take several weeks.You should also use a lubricant and a condom to prevent irritation and infection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin levels.This is because postpartum hemorrhage can lead to hypovolemia which can cause a decrease in hematocrit and hemoglobin levels.Increased white blood cell and platelet counts (option B) are not expected findings in postpartum hemorrhage.Decreased prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time (option C) are not expected findings in postpartum hemorrhage.Increased fibrinogen and fibrin degradation products (option D) are not expected findings in postpartum hemorrhage.
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