A nurse is providing care for a group of postpartum clients. Which of the following clients should the nurse see first?

Rationale:

A. Increase the rate of the oxytocin infusion: Increasing oxytocin would intensify uterine contractions, which can worsen uteroplacental insufficiency and exacerbate late decelerations. This action is unsafe and contraindicated when late decelerations are present.

B. Administer dinoprostone transvaginally: Dinoprostone is used to ripen the cervix or induce labor, not to correct fetal distress caused by uteroplacental insufficiency. Administering it in this scenario would not address the underlying problem and could increase fetal risk.

C. Place the client in a lateral position: Lateral positioning improves uteroplacental blood flow and oxygen delivery to the fetus, which can reduce late decelerations. It is an immediate, safe, and effective nursing intervention to relieve fetal stress caused by decreased placental perfusion.

D. Assist the client to empty their bladder: While bladder distention can affect uterine contractions and comfort, it does not directly address late decelerations. Emptying the bladder may be beneficial for other reasons, but repositioning the client takes priority in improving fetal oxygenation.

Rationale for Correct Choices

• Intravenous antibiotics: The client presents with uterine tenderness, dark foul-smelling lochia, a mildly elevated temperature, and an elevated WBC count, all of which point to endometritis, a common postpartum infection. The first-line treatment for endometritis is broad-spectrum IV antibiotics to prevent complications like sepsis.
• Increase in daily fluid intake: Infection and fever can increase fluid loss through insensible means, and fluids support circulation, renal function, and antibiotic delivery. Encouraging increased fluid intake also helps address dehydration from fever and supports healing and lactation.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices

• Kleihauer-Betke test: This test detects fetal-to-maternal hemorrhage and is used in trauma or suspected placental abruption in Rh-negative mothers. There is no indication of bleeding or Rh incompatibility in this case, so it is not appropriate here.
• Tocolytic medication: Tocolytics are used to suppress uterine contractions in preterm labor. This client is postpartum and has no signs of preterm labor or uterine hyperstimulation, so this medication is not warranted.
• Intrauterine tamponade balloon: This device is used for severe postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony that doesn’t respond to medical treatment. The client has moderate lochia but no signs of active hemorrhage or hemodynamic instability, so it is not indicated.