A nurse is reviewing the chart of a client who is 2 days postpartum following a vaginal delivery and reports constipation.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a contraindication to the use of a suppository?

This client should be reassessed by the RN prior to transfer, as worsening perineal pain may indicate a hematoma, infection, or inadequate pain management. The RN should inspect the perineum, check the vital signs, and evaluate the effectiveness of the medication.

The other options are not correct because:

B .A multigravida whose peri-pad is 1/4 saturated with lochia rubra after one hour does not need to be reassessed by the RN, as this is a normal finding for a client two hours post-birth. Lochia rubra is the red-colored vaginal discharge that contains blood and debris from the placental site, and it usually lasts for 3 to 4 days after delivery. A peri-pad that is 1/4 saturated after one hour is within the expected range of blood loss.

C. A multigravida complaining of strong afterbirth pains when breastfeeding does not need to be reassessed by the RN, as this is a normal finding for a client two hours post-birth. Afterbirth pains are cramps caused by uterine contractions that help shrink the uterus and prevent bleeding. They are more common and intense in multiparous women and during breastfeeding, as oxytocin is released and stimulates the contractions.

D. A primigravida who passed a small clot when she sat up on the edge of the bed does not need to be reassessed by the RN, as this is a normal finding for a client two hours post-birth. Small clots may form in the uterus or vagina due to pooling of blood during rest or anesthesia, and they are usually expelled when changing position or ambulating. As long as the clot is smaller than a plum and there is no excessive bleeding or pain, it is not a cause for concern.

The nurse should instruct the client to have her provider refit her for a diaphragm.

After childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes changes that may affect the fit of her diaphragm.

It is recommended that a woman be refited for a diaphragm around 6 weeks postpartum, when the uterus and cervix have returned to normal size.

Choice A is incorrect because oil-based lubricants can damage the diaphragm and reduce its effectiveness.

Water-based lubricants should be used instead.

Choice B is incorrect because storing a diaphragm in sterile water is not necessary.

The diaphragm should be washed with mild soap and water after each use and air-dried before being stored in its case.

Choice C is incorrect because the diaphragm should be kept in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse, not 4 hours.