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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale: Having the client pant during the next contractions helps to prevent premature pushing. Panting, or controlled breathing, reduces the urge to bear down, which can help prevent cervical swelling or tearing until full dilation is achieved.
Choice B rationale: Assisting the client into a comfortable position is important but not the immediate priority. The client should be instructed to use techniques to prevent pushing.
Choice C rationale: Helping the client to the bathroom to void is not appropriate at this stage of labor, as it may increase the risk of complications and is not the immediate priority.
Choice D rationale: Observing the perineum for signs of crowning is crucial. This action helps the nurse determine if the client is indeed ready to push and if the baby is descending properly. It ensures that the timing for pushing is optimal to prevent complications during delivery.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This is the correct answer. In infants of mothers with poorly controlled diabetes, hyperinsulinemia can lead to increased oxygen consumption and metabolic rate, which can contribute to the development of respiratory distress syndrome.
Choice B rationale
Increased blood viscosity is not the most likely cause of respiratory distress in a macrosomic newborn of a mother with poorly controlled diabetes.
Choice C rationale
A brachial plexus injury is a potential complication of delivery for macrosomic infants, but it is not a cause of respiratory distress syndrome.
Choice D rationale
Increased deposits of fat in the chest and shoulder areas can make delivery more difficult and can increase the risk of birth injuries, but they are not the most likely cause of respiratory distress syndrome in a macrosomic newborn of a mother with poorly controlled diabetes.
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