A nurse is planning care for a client who is 1 hr postpartum and has preeclampsia without severe features. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

Choice A rationale:
Droplet precautions are used for diseases or germs that are spread in tiny droplets caused by coughing and sneezing (examples: pneumonia, influenza, whooping cough, bacterial meningitis). This is not the case with Clostridium difficile.
Choice B rationale:
Airborne precautions are used for diseases or germs that are spread through the air (examples: tuberculosis, measles, chickenpox). This is not the case with Clostridium difficile.
Choice C rationale:
A protective environment is a room designed to reduce the risk of infections from airborne, droplet, and contact transmissions. It’s typically for patients who have undergone stem cell transplants. This is not necessary for Clostridium difficile.
Choice D rationale:
Contact precautions are used for diseases or germs that are spread by touching the patient or items in the room (examples: MRSA, VRE, diarrheal illnesses, open wounds). Clostridium difficile is spread via contact, hence contact precautions are appropriate.

Choice A rationale:
Hypertension is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice B rationale:
Uterine tenderness is a common symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice C rationale:
Fetal tachycardia is not a typical symptom of abruptio placentae.
Choice D rationale:
Leukorrhea is not associated with abruptio placentae.

The most likely finding the nurse should expect in a client experiencing abruptio placenta during labor is:

b. Uterine tenderness.

Here's why:

• Hypertension (a):While preeclampsia can increase the risk of abruptio placenta,it's not always present,and hypertension wouldn't be the immediate expected finding during the abruption event itself.
• Fetal tachycardia (c):This can occur in early stages of abruption to compensate for decreased oxygen supply,but as the abruption becomes more severe,fetal bradycardia is more likely due to oxygen deprivation.
• Leukorrhea (d):This is a white vaginal discharge and has no connection to abruptio placenta.

Uterine tenderness is a characteristic sign of abruptio placenta due to bleeding behind the placenta and irritation of the uterine muscle. This is often accompanied by:

• Vaginal bleeding (bright red or dark)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Sudden, ongoing uterine tightening or irritability
• Fetal distress (decreased fetal heart rate movements)

Therefore, option b is the most expected finding in this scenario.

Remember: Early recognition and prompt management of abruptio placenta are crucial for optimal outcomes for both mother and baby. If you suspect abruptio placenta, immediate medical attention is essential.