A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 24 hr postpartum. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Fundus soft, 2 fingerbreadths below the umbilicus
Fundus firm, 1 fingerbreadth below the umbilicus
Fundus firm, 4 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus
Fundus soft, to the right of the umbilicus
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Fundus soft, 2 fingerbreadths below the umbilicus is incorrect, as this finding indicates uterine atony and subinvolution. The fundus is the upper part of the uterus that can be palpated through the abdomen after birth. The fundus should be firm and midline to indicate adequate uterine contraction and involution. A soft or boggy fundus can increase the risk of hemorrhage and infection.
Choice B reason: Fundus firm, 1 fingerbreadth below the umbilicus is correct, as this finding indicates normal uterine contraction and involution. The fundus is normally at the level of the umbilicus immediately after birth and then descends about one fingerbreadth per day. A firm and midline fundus can prevent excessive bleeding and promote healing.
Choice C reason: Fundus firm, 4 fingerbreadths above the umbilicus is incorrect, as this finding indicates a higher than expected fundal height for a client who is 24 hr postpartum. The fundus is normally at the level of the umbilicus immediately after birth and then descends about one fingerbreadth per day. A high fundal height can indicate uterine atony, retained placental fragments, or bladder distension.
Choice D reason: Fundus soft, to the right of the umbilicus is incorrect, as this finding indicates uterine atony and bladder distension. The fundus should be firm and midline to indicate adequate uterine contraction and involution. A deviated fundus can indicate bladder distension, which can interfere with uterine contraction and involution and increase the risk of hemorrhage and infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: "You will experience urinary retention." is incorrect, as this statement does not describe a sign preceding the onset of labor. Urinary retention can occur during labor due to pressure from the fetal head or epidural anesthesia, but it is not a sign that labor is imminent. The nurse should encourage the client to void frequently and monitor their bladder status.
Choice B reason: "You will have a decrease in vaginal discharge." is incorrect, as this statement does not describe a sign preceding the onset of labor. Vaginal discharge can increase before labor due to cervical ripening and dilation, which can cause bloody show or mucus plug loss. The nurse should educate the client about normal and abnormal vaginal discharge and when to report it.
Choice C reason: "You will experience a surge of energy." is correct, as this statement describes a sign preceding the onset of labor. A surge of energy, also known as nesting instinct, can occur before labor due to hormonal changes or psychological factors. The nurse should advise the client to conserve their energy and rest as much as possible before labor.
Choice D reason: "You will have a weight gain of 0.5 to 1.5 kilograms." is incorrect, as this statement does not describe a sign preceding the onset of labor. Weight gain can occur during pregnancy due to fetal growth, fluid retention, or increased caloric intake, but it is not a sign that labor is imminent. The nurse should monitor the client's weight and fluid balance and report any sudden or excessive weight gain that may indicate preeclampsia or other complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Panting can help prevent premature pushing and reduce the risk of cervical edema or laceration. The client should be instructed to take short, shallow breaths through her mouth during contractions until she reaches 10 cm of dilation.
Choice B reason:
Assessing the perineum for signs of crowning is not a priority at this stage, as the fetus is not yet at a low enough station to be visible. Crowning usually occurs when the fetus is at +4 or +5 station.
Choice C reason:
Assisting the client into a comfortable position is important, but it does not address the urge to push. The client should be encouraged to change positions frequently to promote fetal descent and comfort.
Choice D reason:
Helping the client to the bathroom to empty her bladder is not advisable, as it can increase the risk of cord prolapse or rupture of membranes. The client should have an indwelling catheter inserted if she is unable to void spontaneously.
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