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:
Fetal head compression is incorrect, as this factor can cause early decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Early decelerations are symmetrical decreases in the FHR that mirror the contractions, which indicate fetal head compression and vagal stimulation. Fetal head compression occurs as the fetus descends into the birth canal and does not pose a threat to the fetal well-being.

Choice B reason:
Polyhydramnios is incorrect, as this factor can cause variable or late decelerations in the fetal heart rate, depending on the underlying cause. Polyhydramnios refers to an excessive amount of amniotic fluid, which can result from fetal anomalies, maternal diabetes, multiple gestation, or other conditions. Polyhydramnios can cause umbilical cord prolapse, uterine overdistension, or placental abruption, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus.

Choice C reason:
Maternal fever is incorrect, as this factor can cause late decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Late decelerations are symmetrical decreases in the FHR that begin after the peak of the contraction and return to baseline after the contraction ends, which indicate uteroplacental insufficiency. Maternal fever can increase maternal and fetal metabolism and oxygen demand, leading to fetal hypoxia and acidosis.

Choice D reason:
Umbilical cord compression is correct, as this factor can cause variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate. Variable decelerations are abrupt decreases in the FHR that vary in onset, duration, and depth, which indicate umbilical cord compression and reduced blood flow to the fetus. Umbilical cord compression can occur due to cord prolapse, nuchal cord, short cord, or other causes. The nurse should reposition the client, administer oxygen, and prepare for delivery if indicated.

Choice A reason: Encourage the client to nurse more frequently so her milk will come in is incorrect, as this action is not related to the data collected by the nurse. The nurse notes that the client's breasts are soft, which indicates that the milk has not come in yet. This is normal and expected for a client who is 14 hr postpartum, as milk production usually begins around 72 to 96 hr after birth. The nurse should encourage the client to nurse frequently and effectively to stimulate milk production and prevent engorgement.

Choice B reason: Increase IV fluids is incorrect, as this action is not indicated by the data collected by the nurse. The nurse notes that the client's vital signs are within normal limits, except for a slight temperature elevation. Increasing IV fluids can cause fluid overload and electrolyte imbalance in the client. The nurse should maintain the IV fluids at the prescribed rate and monitor the client's intake and output.

Choice C reason: Ask the client to empty her bladder is correct, as this action is indicated by the data collected by the nurse. The nurse notes that the client's fundus is firm but slightly deviated to the right, which suggests bladder distension. A full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction and involution and increase the risk of hemorrhage and infection. The nurse should assist the client to empty their bladder and reassess the fundal position.

Choice D reason: Report the client's temperature elevation is incorrect, as this action is not necessary for a slight temperature elevation in a postpartum client. The nurse notes that the client's temperature is 37.7° C (100° F), which is slightly above normal but within the range of expected findings for a postpartum client. A mild temperature elevation in the first 24 hr after birth can be due to dehydration, exertion, or hormonal changes and does not indicate infection. The nurse should encourage oral fluid intake and monitor the temperature every 4 hr.