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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Betamethasone does not increase the fetal heart rate. It is a corticosteroid given to pregnant women who are at risk of preterm delivery to enhance fetal lung maturity and prevent respiratory distress syndrome.
Choice B rationale
Betamethasone is not used to stop preterm labor contractions. Other medications, such as tocolytics, are used for this purpose.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct answer. Betamethasone is given to promote fetal lung maturity. It is usually given in two doses, 24 hours apart, and takes effect within 24 hours of administration.
Choice D rationale
Betamethasone does not halt cervical dilation. It is given to enhance fetal lung maturity, not to stop labor.
Correct Answer is A,B,C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the newborn’s capillary blood glucose level is important, especially for a large for gestational age newborn. Large for gestational age newborns are at risk for hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) after birth. Therefore, regular monitoring of the newborn’s blood glucose level is crucial.
Choice B rationale
Placing the newborn under a radiant warmer can help regulate the baby’s body temperature. Newborns, especially those who are large for gestational age, may have difficulty maintaining their body temperature after birth. A radiant warmer can provide the extra warmth the baby needs.
Choice C rationale
Monitoring the newborn’s temperature is important as newborns can lose heat rapidly, they don’t have the ability to control their body temperature as adults do. Temperature regulation in newborns is important to help them stay healthy and comfortable.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring the newborn’s color and frequency of bowel movements is not directly related to the condition described. While it’s an important aspect of newborn care, it’s not a priority in this scenario.
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