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
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While itching can be a side effect of opioid analgesics, it is not the priority observation. Itching can be uncomfortable for the client, but it is not life-threatening.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38.2°C (100.8°F) indicates a low-grade fever. While this should be monitored, it is not the priority observation in this situation.
Choice C rationale
The priority observation is the client’s blood pressure. Opioid epidural analgesia can cause hypotension, which can lead to inadequate perfusion to the mother and the fetus. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize monitoring the client’s blood pressure.
Choice D rationale
Weakness of the lower extremities can be a side effect of epidural analgesia, but it is not the priority observation. The nurse should monitor for this, but it is not as critical as monitoring the client’s blood pressure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying cold compresses 20 minutes before each feeding may not be the most effective way to manage breast engorgement. Cold compresses can help to reduce swelling and relieve pain, but they do not address the underlying cause of engorgement, which is the accumulation of milk in the breasts.
Choice B rationale
Drinking herbal tea to reduce engorgement is not a proven method. While some herbs are believed to have galactagogue properties (increase milk production), they do not directly address breast engorgement. Furthermore, the safety and efficacy of many herbal remedies are not well-studied, and some may have side effects.
Choice C rationale
Letting the baby drain one breast at each feeding can help to alleviate engorgement, but it may not be sufficient if the feedings are spaced too far apart. The breasts continue to produce milk between feedings, and if the milk is not removed, engorgement can occur.
Choice D rationale
Feeding the baby every 2 hours can help to manage breast engorgement. Regular feedings help to ensure that the milk is being removed from the breasts, preventing the buildup that leads to engorgement.
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