A primiparous client was induced at 41-weeks gestation with misoprostol and oxytocin. She gave birth vaginally 4 days ago, and her prenatal course and delivery were uncomplicated. She was discharged home on day two with her newborn and has been breastfeeding around the clock. Discharge prescription included ferrous sulfate 325 mg PO twice daily. Client called her healthcare provider (HCP) this morning with fatigue, new onset of headache that was not relieved with ibuprofen, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and seeing “flashing lights.”. Client was instructed to come to the hospital for evaluation.
She may be experiencing postpartum preeclampsia.
She may have an infection that needs further evaluation.
Her symptoms could indicate anemia due to blood loss.
She may be experiencing normal postpartum fatigue.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Postpartum preeclampsia symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and visual disturbances due to increased blood pressure. Normal BP is <120/80 mmHg. Labs may show elevated liver enzymes and proteinuria.
Choice B rationale
Infections postpartum can cause fever, localized pain, and discharge but are less likely to present with headache, nausea, dizziness, and visual disturbances. Normal WBC is 4,000-11,000 cells/mcL.
Choice C rationale
Anemia due to blood loss may cause fatigue, dizziness, and weakness but usually doesn't present with headache and visual disturbances. Normal hemoglobin is 12-16 g/dL for women.
Choice D rationale
Normal postpartum fatigue generally doesn't include severe headache, nausea, dizziness, and visual disturbances. It is mainly characterized by tiredness and mild discomfort as the body recovers.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Bradycardia (heart rate 56 beats/minute) is common postpartum due to increased stroke volume and reduced heart rate, reflecting physiological adaptation after delivery.
Choice B rationale
Saturating two perineal pads per hour is excessive and could indicate postpartum hemorrhage, requiring immediate evaluation and intervention.
Choice C rationale
A soft, spongy fundus indicates uterine atony, a serious condition requiring urgent intervention to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice D rationale
Unilateral lower leg pain could indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a significant postpartum complication needing immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Obtaining a blood sample for complete blood count is crucial but secondary. The client’s low blood pressure and high heart rate indicate possible hypovolemia requiring immediate intervention to restore blood pressure and perfusion.
Choice B rationale
Infusing normal saline helps restore blood volume. However, it won't address supine hypotension syndrome, caused by uterine compression of the inferior vena cava, which necessitates repositioning the client first to improve hemodynamic stability.
Choice C rationale
Palpating the abdomen for contractions is important in assessing labor progress. Yet, it doesn't address the immediate hemodynamic instability caused by supine hypotension, which needs immediate correction to avoid fetal compromise.
Choice D rationale
Tilting the backboard laterally displaces the uterus off the inferior vena cava, alleviating supine hypotension syndrome. This improves maternal blood pressure and fetal perfusion, addressing the immediate hemodynamic instability effectively.
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.