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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying lotion to the newborn’s skin during phototherapy is not recommended. Lotion can block the light from reaching the skin and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
Choice B rationale
Covering the newborn’s eyes with a mask during phototherapy is a standard practice. This is done to protect the newborn’s eyes from the intense light used in phototherapy.
Choice C rationale
An increase in stool frequency is expected during phototherapy. This is because phototherapy helps to break down bilirubin, which is then excreted in the stool.
Choice D rationale
A pink rash on the newborn’s trunk does not require intervention during phototherapy. It could be a common newborn rash that will resolve on its own.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice A.
Choice A rationale: Documenting the findings and continuing to monitor the client is appropriate because the nurse has already observed that the fundus is midline and firm, which indicates good uterine tone. The presence of lochia rubra and small clots is expected in the immediate postpartum period.
Choice B rationale: Encouraging the client to empty her bladder can help maintain uterine tone, but in this scenario, the fundus is already firm and midline, so this is not the priority action.
Choice C rationale: Notifying the client's provider is unnecessary at this time because the findings are within normal postpartum expectations and the uterus is firm.
Choice D rationale: Increasing the frequency of fundal massage is not needed because the uterus is already firm and midline, indicating that it is contracting properly.
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