A nurse is collecting data from a client who is postpartum. Which of the following findings should alert the nurse to the possibility of a postpartum complication?

Choice A reason:
Dinoprostone stimulates uterine contractions is incorrect, as this is not the primary purpose of the medication. Dinoprostone is a prostaglandin that can induce labor by ripening the cervix and enhancing uterine contractility, but it is not used solely for stimulating contractions.

Choice B reason:
Dinoprostone promotes softening of the cervix is correct, as this is the main purpose of the medication. Dinoprostone is used to prepare the cervix for labor by increasing its softness, dilation, and effacement. This can facilitate the descent of the fetus and shorten the duration of labor.

Choice C reason:
Dinoprostone relaxes uterine contractions is incorrect, as this is the opposite effect of the medication. Dinoprostone can increase uterine tone and frequency, which can help initiate or augment labor. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of uterine hyperstimulation or fetal distress.

Choice D reason:
Dinoprostone assists with ending the pregnancy is incorrect, as this is not the intended use of the medication. Dinoprostone can be used to terminate a pregnancy in some cases, such as fetal demise or missed abortion, but it is not routinely used for this purpose. The nurse should explain to the client that dinoprostone is used to induce labor and not to end a pregnancy.

Choice A reason:
Feeling for a full bladder is not the first action the nurse should take, although it is important to assess for bladder distension and urinary retention in postpartum clients. A full bladder can displace the uterus and increase the risk of uterine atony and hemorrhage.

Choice B reason:
Checking the client's fundus is the first action the nurse should take, as it can indicate the tone and position of the uterus. A firm and midline fundus indicates adequate uterine contraction and prevents excessive bleeding. A boggy or deviated fundus indicates uterine atony or retained placental fragments, which can cause hemorrhage.

Choice C reason:
Measuring the client's vital signs is not the first action the nurse should take, although it is important to monitor for signs of shock and infection in postpartum clients. Vital signs can be affected by various factors and do not provide a direct assessment of uterine status.

Choice D reason:
Requesting the provider perform a vaginal examination is not the first action the nurse should take, as it can introduce infection and trauma to the perineum. A vaginal examination is only indicated if there is suspicion of cervical or vaginal lacerations or retained placenta.