A nurse is planning care for a client who is 12 hr postpartum and has a third-degree perineal laceration. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Place a witch hazel pad on the client's perineal pad after each voiding
Apply hydrogel pads to the perineum every 4 hr
Prepare the client for a pudenal nerve block
Encourage the client to apply a warm pack to the perineum for discomfort
The Correct Answer is B
A. Place a witch hazel pad on the client's perineal pad after each voiding: Witch hazel pads can provide relief from perineal discomfort, but they are typically used in the immediate postpartum period for general comfort rather than specifically for third-degree perineal lacerations.
B. Apply hydrogel pads to the perineum every 4 hr: Hydrogel pads can help soothe and cool the perineal area, providing relief from pain and discomfort. This intervention is appropriate for third-degree perineal lacerations.
C. Prepare the client for a pudendal nerve block: Pudendal nerve blocks are typically used for pain relief during the second stage of labor and delivery. They are not a standard intervention for managing third-degree perineal lacerations postpartum.
D. Encourage the client to apply a warm pack to the perineum for discomfort: While warm packs can provide comfort, they are generally not recommended for third-degree perineal lacerations. Cold packs or hydrogel pads are often more appropriate for reducing swelling and providing relief in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Uterine tenderness is a common finding in endometritis. This inflammation of the endometrial lining can cause tenderness upon palpation of the uterus.
B. Temperature 37.4o C (99.3 F): Fever is a common symptom of endometritis. The body's response to infection often includes an elevated temperature.
C. WBC count 9000/mm3: In endometritis, there is typically an elevated white blood cell count as the body responds to the infection. A count of 9000/mm3 is within the normal range and may not be indicative of infection, making this choice less likely.
D. Scant lochia: Endometritis is associated with an increase in lochial flow rather than a decrease. Lochia may be increased in amount and foul-smelling in cases of endometritis. Scant lochia is more likely to be associated with other postpartum conditions but not necessarily endometritis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Use fingers to exert upward pressure on the presenting part
The priority in the case of a prolapsed umbilical cord is to relieve pressure on the cord to maintain blood flow to the fetus. The nurse should use sterile-gloved fingers to lift the presenting part of the fetus off the prolapsed cord. This action helps prevent compression of the umbilical cord, which could lead to fetal hypoxia and distress.
B. Administer a tocolytic medication: Tocolytic medications are used to inhibit uterine contractions. While tocolytics might be used in certain situations, the immediate concern with a prolapsed cord is to relieve pressure on it to maintain fetal blood flow.
C. Wrap the cord in a sterile towel and moisten with warm sterile normal saline: While covering the cord with a sterile towel and moistening it can help prevent drying and protect the cord, it is not the first priority. The primary concern is relieving pressure on the cord to prevent fetal compromise.
D. Apply oxygen via facemask to the client: Oxygen administration is important in managing fetal distress, but it is not the first action to take in the case of a prolapsed umbilical cord. The priority is to relieve pressure on the cord to maintain fetal oxygenation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today