A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has postpartum hemorrhage.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Hemoglobin 10 g/dL
Hematocrit 30%
Platelets 100,000/mm3
White blood cells 12,000/mm3
The Correct Answer is C
This is because a low platelet count (<150,000/mm3) indicates thrombocytopenia, which can increase the risk of bleeding and hemorrhage.
The nurse should report this finding to the provider as it may require treatment or transfusion.
Choice A is wrong because hemoglobin 10 g/dL is within the normal range for postpartum women (10-14 g/dL) and does not indicate hemorrhage.
Choice B is wrong because hematocrit 30% is also within the normal range for postpartum women (30-39%) and does not indicate hemorrhage.
Choice D is wrong because white blood cells 12,000/mm3 is slightly elevated but not abnormal for postpartum women, who may have a physiological leukocytosis due to stress, inflammation, or infection.
This finding does not indicate hemorrhage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should perform a blood pressure assessment before giving methylergonovine to a client who has postpartum hemorrhage because methylergonovine can cause hypertension and cerebrovascular accidents.The nurse should administer methylergonovine over more than one minute and monitor blood pressure.
Choice B. Temperature is wrong because temperature is not affected by methylergonovine and is not a priority assessment for postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice C. Respiratory rate is wrong because respiratory rate is not affected by methylergonovine and is not a priority assessment for postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice D. Blood glucose is wrong because blood glucose is not affected by methylergonovine and is not a priority assessment for postpartum hemorrhage.
Postpartum hemorrhage is severe vaginal bleeding after childbirth that can lead to shock and death.
The major causes of postpartum hemorrhage are uterine atony, lacerations, retained placenta or clots, and clotting factor deficiency.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Tachycardia is an early sign of hypovolemic shock, which is a life-threatening condition caused by excessive blood loss.Tachycardia is the body’s attempt to compensate for the reduced blood volume and maintain adequate blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs.
Choice B.Hypotension is wrong because it is a late sign of hypovolemic shock, indicating severe blood loss and decompensation.
Hypotension can lead to organ failure and death if not corrected promptly.
Choice C.Oliguria is wrong because it is not a specific sign of hypovolemic shock, but rather a consequence of reduced renal perfusion due to low blood pressure and volume.
Oliguria can also be caused by other factors such as dehydration, urinary tract obstruction, or renal disease.
Choice D.Pallor is wrong because it is not a reliable sign of hypovolemic shock, as it can be influenced by skin color, temperature, and lighting conditions.
Pallor can also occur in other conditions such as anemia, hypoxia, or vasovagal syncope.
Normal ranges for vital signs in postpartum women are:
• Heart rate: 60-100 beats per minute
• Blood pressure
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.