A woman had spinal anesthesia for delivery. Now she complains of a pounding headache rated 7/10. What action by the nurse is most appropriate?

Choice A reason:

Occasional uterine cramping when the infant nurses is a normal phenomenon that occurs as the uterus contracts and returns to its pre-pregnancy size. This is not a sign of infection or complication and does not need to be reported.

Choice B reason:

Descent of the fundus one fingerbreadth each day is also a normal finding that indicates the uterus is involuting properly. The fundus is the top of the uterus that can be felt through the abdomen. It should be at the level of the umbilicus immediately after delivery and then descend about one fingerbreadth (or 1 cm) each day until it reaches the pelvic brim by 10 days postpartum.

Choice C reason:

Reappearance of red lochia after it changes to serous is an abnormal sign that may indicate uterine atony, subinvolution, or retained placental fragments. Lochia is the vaginal discharge that occurs after childbirth, consisting of blood, mucus, and tissue. It usually changes from red to pink to brown to yellow-white over a period of several weeks. If it becomes red again, it may mean that there is bleeding from the uterus or infection in the endometrium. This should be reported to a health care provider as soon as possible.

Choice D reason:

Oral temperature that is 37.2 C (99 F) in the morning is within the normal range and does not indicate fever or infection. A slight elevation in temperature may occur due to dehydration, breast engorgement, or hormonal changes. This does not need to be reported unless it exceeds 38 C (100.4 F) or persists for more than 24 hours.

Choice A reason:

Babinski's Reflex is the normal response in infants when the sole of the foot is stroked from the heel to the ball of the foot. The big toe moves upward or toward the top surface of the foot, and the other toes fan out. This reflex is normal in children up to 2 years old, and it disappears as the nervous system matures. It may indicate damage to the central nervous system in older children and adults.

Choice B reason:

Stepping Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are held upright with their feet touching a flat surface. They will lift one foot and then the other, as if they are walking. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 2 months. It helps prepare the infant for voluntary walking.

Choice C reason:

Moro Reflex is the normal response in infants when they are startled by a loud noise or a sudden movement. They will extend their arms and legs, open their hands, and then curl up and bring their arms together as if they are hugging themselves. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 4 to 6 months. It is thought to be a protective response that helps the infant cling to their caregiver.

Choice D reason:

Plantar Grasp Reflex is the normal response in infants when pressure is applied to the sole of the foot near the toes. The toes will curl down and grasp the stimulus. This reflex is present at birth and lasts for about 9 to 12 months. It is similar to the palmar grasp reflex in the hands, and it helps develop the muscles and nerves in the feet. Some additional sentences are:. If you are interested in learning more about infant development, you can check out some of these links:. • [A guide to newborn reflexes]. • [A video demonstration of newborn reflexes].