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 B
Explanation
Choice B reason:
Auscultating the client's abdomen is the first action the nurse should take, as it can assess the return of bowel function after surgery. The nurse should listen for bowel sounds in all four quadrants, and note their frequency and quality.
Offering clear liquids is an important action, as it can provide hydration and nutrition for the client. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it may cause nausea and vomiting if the client's bowel function has not returned.
Choice C reason:
Checking the client's chart for a diet prescription is an important action, as it can ensure that the client follows the provider's orders and does not consume anything contraindicated. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the client's hunger or bowel function.
Choice D reason:
Giving the client soda crackers is an important action, as it can provide a bland and easily digestible food for the client. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it may be too solid for the client's stomach if her bowel function has not returned.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Checking the consistency of the client's uterine fundus is the first action the nurse should take, as it can indicate the cause of excessive bleeding. A boggy or soft fundus indicates uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should massage the fundus until it becomes firm and contracted.
Choice B reason:
Having the client use the bedpan to urinate is an important action, as a full bladder can displace the uterus and prevent it from contracting properly. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate source of bleeding.
Choice C reason:
Increasing the client's fluid intake is an important action, as it can help replace fluid loss and prevent hypovolemia and shock. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not stop the bleeding.
Choice D reason:
Preparing to administer oxytocic medication is an important action, as it can stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it requires a provider's prescription and may not be necessary if fundal massage is effective.
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