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?
Urinary output 2,000 mL/12 hr
Temperature 100.4 F for two days
Chills shortly following delivery
Fundus at umbilicus level
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
A urinary output of 2,000 mL/12 hr is normal for a postpartum client, as the body eliminates excess fluid accumulated during pregnancy.
Choice B reason:
A temperature of 100.4 F for two days indicates a possible infection, such as endometritis or mastitis, and requires further evaluation and treatment.
Choice C reason:
Chills shortly following delivery are common and benign and are caused by hormonal changes and fluid shifts.
Choice D reason:
A fundus at the umbilicus level is expected for a postpartum client and indicates that the uterus is involuting properly.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D reason:
Placing the client in a knee-chest or Trendelenburg position is the first action the nurse should take, as it can relieve pressure on the cord and prevent compression and fetal hypoxia. The nurse should also use a sterile gloved hand to hold the presenting part off the cord.
Choice A reason:
Preparing the client for an emergency cesarean birth is an important action, as it can facilitate prompt delivery and prevent fetal compromise. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate problem of cord prolapse.
Choice B reason:
Covering the cord with a sterile, moist saline dressing is an important action, as it can prevent drying and infection of the cord. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate problem of cord compression.
Choice C reason:
Explaining to the client what is happening is an important action, as it can provide emotional support and education for the client. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take, as it does not address the immediate problem of cord prolapse.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Massage the client's fundus is correct, as this is the first action the nurse should take according to the ABCDE priority framework. Saturating a perineal pad in 10 min indicates excessive bleeding and possible postpartum hemorrhage, which can compromise the client's airway, breathing, and circulation. Massaging the fundus can stimulate uterine contraction and reduce blood loss.
Choice B reason: Check the client's blood pressure is incorrect, as this is not the first action the nurse should take, although it is important to monitor for signs of shock. Checking the blood pressure does not address the cause of bleeding or prevent further blood loss.
Choice C reason: Administer oxytocin is incorrect, as this is not the first action the nurse should take, although it may be indicated later. Administering oxytocin requires a provider's order and may have adverse effects such as nausea,
vomiting, headache, or water intoxication. The nurse should first atempt to control bleeding by massaging the fundus and then administer oxytocin as ordered.
Choice D reason: Observe for pooling of blood under the butocks is incorrect, as this is not the first action the nurse should take, although it can help estimate blood loss. Observing for pooling of blood does not address the cause of bleeding or prevent further blood loss. The nurse should first atempt to control bleeding by massaging the fundus and then assess for other signs of hemorrhage.
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