A nurse is monitoring a client who had a cesarean delivery for signs of thromboembolism.
Which of the following findings should alert the nurse to this complication?
Shortness of breath and chest pain
Nausea and vomiting
Headache and blurred vision
Fever and chills.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A. Shortness of breath and chest pain are signs of pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a life-threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a type of blood clot that can occur in the legs or arms, especially during pregnancy and postpartum. PE happens when a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow.
Choice B is wrong because nausea and vomiting are not specific signs of thromboembolism.
They can be caused by many other conditions, such as morning sickness, food poisoning, or medication side effects.
Choice C is wrong because headache and blurred vision are not typical signs of thromboembolism.
They can be associated with other pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia or eclampsia.
Choice D is wrong because fever and chills are not common signs of thromboembolism.
They can indicate an infection or inflammation, such as mastitis or endometritis.
Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing DVT and PE because of hormonal changes, increased blood clotting factors, reduced blood flow to the legs, and other factors. The risk is even higher after a cesarean delivery.
Therefore, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of thromboembolism and seek immediate medical attention if they occur. Thromboembolism can be prevented and treated with anticoagulant medications, compression stockings, and physical activity.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
“I can take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.” This is because these are safe and effective medications for pain management after a C-section.
Choice A is wrong because driving is not recommended until the incision is healed and the pain is gone, which can take 4 to 6 weeks.
Choice B is wrong because lifting anything heavier than the baby can strain the incision and cause bleeding or infection.
Choice C is wrong because sexual intercourse should be avoided until the vaginal bleeding stops and the incision is healed, which can take 4 to 6 weeks or longer.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. Shortness of breath and chest pain are signs of pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a life-threatening complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).DVT is a type of blood clot that can occur in the legs or arms, especially during pregnancy and postpartum.PE happens when a blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow.
Choice B is wrong because nausea and vomiting are not specific signs of thromboembolism.
They can be caused by many other conditions, such as morning sickness, food poisoning, or medication side effects.
Choice C is wrong because headache and blurred vision are not typical signs of thromboembolism.
They can be associated with other pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia or eclampsia.
Choice D is wrong because fever and chills are not common signs of thromboembolism.
They can indicate an infection or inflammation, such as mastitis or endometritis.
Pregnant women have a higher risk of developing DVT and PE because of hormonal changes, increased blood clotting factors, reduced blood flow to the legs, and other factors.The risk is even higher after a cesarean delivery.
Therefore, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of thromboembolism and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.Thromboembolism can be prevented and treated with anticoagulant medications, compression stockings, and physical activity.
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