A nurse is collecting data from an 8-month-old infant who has increased intracranial pressure (ICP) Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale:

Evaluating the client for signs of infection is an important nursing action in post-procedure care, but it is not the priority immediately following an amniotomy. The primary concern after an amniotomy is fetal well-being, so monitoring the fetal heart rate is the priority.

Choice B rationale:

Checking the fetal heart rate pattern is the priority nursing action following an amniotomy. Amniotomy involves breaking the amniotic sac, which can potentially lead to changes in the fetal heart rate. Monitoring the fetal heart rate helps assess the baby's well-being and detects any signs of fetal distress.

Choice C rationale:

Observing the color and consistency of amniotic fluid is important for assessing the fluid for signs of meconium staining or infection, but it is not the immediate priority after an amniotomy. Checking the fetal heart rate takes precedence.

Choice D rationale:

Taking the client's temperature is an important part of assessing for infection or fever, but it is not the immediate priority following an amniotomy. Fetal well-being and monitoring are the primary concerns in the immediate post-amniotomy period.

Choice A rationale:

Administering an enema can help relieve the client’s abdominal cramping and small, hard, painful bowel movement. An enema is a procedure that involves introducing a liquid solution into the rectum to promote evacuation of feces. It can be used to relieve constipation, which seems to be the client’s issue based on the description of their bowel movement.

Choice B rationale:

Assisting the client with a sitz bath may not be necessary at this time. A sitz bath is typically used to soothe and cleanse the perineal area, particularly after childbirth or surgery. While the client does have a surgical incision, the notes indicate that the perineal dressing is intact with minimal serosanguinous drainage, suggesting that the incision site is not currently problematic.

Choice C rationale:

Irrigating an indwelling catheter with 500 mL of fluid is not recommended unless there is a specific indication, such as the catheter being blocked. The client’s urinary catheter is intact with 100 mL/hr of pink urine, which suggests that it is functioning properly.

Choice D rationale:

Encouraging prolonged dangling before ambulation may not be beneficial for this client. Dangling involves sitting on the edge of the bed with legs hanging down before standing up. This can help prevent dizziness upon standing. However, the notes indicate that the client is already ambulating independently in the hallway, suggesting that they do not have issues with mobility or dizziness.

Choice E rationale:

Encouraging oral fluid intake can help alleviate constipation by softening stools and promoting bowel movements. It can also help maintain hydration, which is particularly important for postoperative clients. Therefore, this would be a beneficial action for the nurse to take for this client.