A nurse on the postpartum unit is caring for four clients. For which of the following clients should the nurse notify the provider?
A client who reports luchia rubra requiring changing perineal pads every 3 hr
A client who has a urinary output of 300 mL in 8 hr
A client who is receiving magnesium sulphate and has absent deep tendon reflexes
A client who reports abdominal cramping during breastfeeding
The Correct Answer is C
A. A client who reports lochia rubra requiring changing perineal pads every 3 hr: Lochia rubra is the normal discharge during the early postpartum period. Changing perineal pads every 3 hours is within the expected range and does not warrant immediate notification of the provider.
B. A client who has a urinary output of 300 mL in 8 hr: Although the urinary output is relatively low, the information provided is not sufficient to conclude that this is abnormal. Further assessment is needed, and this finding alone may not be an emergency. However, it should be monitored.
C. A client who is receiving magnesium sulfate and has absent deep tendon reflexes: Absent deep tendon reflexes can be a sign of magnesium toxicity. Magnesium sulfate is used for various indications, such as preeclampsia or eclampsia, but it has a narrow therapeutic range. Absent deep tendon reflexes suggest the need for immediate attention and notification of the provider.
D. A client who reports abdominal cramping during breastfeeding: Abdominal cramping during breastfeeding is a common postpartum symptom associated with uterine contractions. It is a normal physiological response and does not require immediate notification of the provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Select a 21-gauge needle to perform the procedure: The size of the needle used for a heel stick typically ranges between 23 and 25 gauge. A 21-gauge needle is larger and may cause more discomfort to the newborn.
B. Puncture the lateral side of the heel for the procedure: The lateral (outer) side of the heel is the recommended site for a heel stick in a newborn. This area is less sensitive, and puncturing the lateral side helps avoid injury to the medial (inner) side where important structures are located.
C. Apply an alcohol pad to the site after the procedure: Applying an alcohol pad after the procedure is not necessary and may cause unnecessary discomfort to the newborn. The puncture site can be gently blotted with a gauze pad if needed.
D. Place a cool cloth at the site for 15 minutes before the procedure: Placing a cool cloth before the procedure is not recommended. Cooling the site may cause vasoconstriction, making it more difficult to obtain an adequate blood sample. It's generally better to warm the heel, for example, by using a warm cloth, to promote blood flow.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Postpartum hemorrhage: Effacement and dilation relate to the progress of labor, not postpartum hemorrhage. Postpartum hemorrhage is excessive bleeding that occurs after childbirth, typically within 24 hours, and can have various causes unrelated to cervical dilation.
B. Incompetent cervix: Incompetent cervix, also known as cervical insufficiency, refers to the premature and painless dilation of the cervix during the second trimester of pregnancy. It is not directly related to the dilation mentioned in the scenario. However, it is possible that the client may have misunderstood the timing of contractions, and the nurse should assess for other signs of cervical insufficiency.
C. Hyperemesis gravidarum: Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. It is not directly related to cervical dilation or effacement.
D. Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Cervical dilation and effacement are not associated with ectopic pregnancies.
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