A nurse is conducting an assessment on a client who is 4 hours postpartum following a vaginal delivery. Which of the following findings should the nurse prioritize?
Fundus at the level of the umbilicus
Saturated perineal pad in 30 minutes
Approximated edges of episiotomy
Deep tendon reflexes 4+
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While the fundus at the level of the umbilicus is a normal finding for a woman who is 4 hours postpartum, it is not the priority in this case. The fundus, which is the top part of the uterus, typically descends at a rate of approximately one fingerbreadth (or one cm) per day, and by the 12th postpartum day, it should no longer be palpable.
Choice B rationale
A saturated perineal pad in 30 minutes is a sign of excessive bleeding, also known as postpartum hemorrhage. This is a serious condition that can lead to shock and other complications if not treated promptly. Therefore, this finding should be prioritized by the nurse.
Choice C rationale
Approximated edges of an episiotomy are a normal finding in the postpartum period. An episiotomy is a surgical incision made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening for delivery. After delivery, the episiotomy is sutured and should heal without complications with proper care. However, this is not the priority finding in this scenario.
Choice D rationale
Deep tendon reflexes 4+ could be a sign of preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. However, since the client is already 4 hours postpartum, this is less likely to be the priority.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The recommended time for rubella immunization for a woman who does not have immunity is shortly after giving birth. The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is a live virus vaccine and is not recommended during pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
While it’s important for a woman to have immunity to rubella before her next pregnancy, waiting until her next attempt to get pregnant to get the vaccine could potentially leave her unprotected if she becomes pregnant sooner than planned.
Choice C rationale
The MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, including in the third trimester.
Choice D rationale
The MMR vaccine is not recommended during pregnancy, including in the second trimester.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow, which can alleviate pain and redness in the calf. This is a non-pharmacological intervention that the client can easily do at home.
Choice B rationale
Applying cold compresses is typically used for acute injuries to reduce inflammation and numb the area. However, in the case of a postpartum client reporting pain and redness in her calf, this could potentially be a sign of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and applying cold compresses may not be the most appropriate intervention.
Choice C rationale
Flexing the knee while resting is not typically recommended for a client with symptoms that may indicate a DVT. This position does not promote venous return and could potentially exacerbate the condition.
Choice D rationale
Massaging the area is not recommended if a DVT is suspected, as it could dislodge a blood clot and cause a pulmonary embolism.
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