A woman who delivered a normal newborn 24 hours ago reports, "I seem to be urinating every hour or so. Is that OK?" Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement?
Catheterize the client for residual urine volume
Measure the next voiding, then palpate the client's bladder
Evaluate for normal involution, then massage the fundus
Obtain a specimen for urine culture and sensitivity
The Correct Answer is B
- Urinary output is an important indicator of fluid balance and kidney function. After delivery, a woman may experience increased urinary output due to the loss of excess fluid that was retained during pregnancy and the diuretic effect of oxytocin, which is released during breastfeeding. This is a normal and expected finding in the postpartum period.
- However, increased urinary output may also be a sign of urinary retention, which is the inability to empty the bladder completely. Urinary retention can occur due to trauma to the bladder or urethra during delivery, swelling or hematoma of the perineum, epidural anesthesia, or decreased bladder sensation.Urinary retention can lead to complications such as infection, bladder distension, or postpartum hemorrhage.
- Therefore, when a woman who delivered a normal newborn 24 hours ago reports that she seems to be urinating every hour or so, the practical nurse (PN) should measure the next voiding, then palpate the client's bladder. This will help to assess the amount and quality of urine and the presence or absence of bladder distension. A normal urine output is about 30 ml per hour, and a normal bladder should feel soft and empty after voiding. If the urine output is low or high, or if the bladder feels firm or full after voiding, the PN should report these findings to the primary healthcare provider for further evaluation and intervention.
Therefore, option B is the correct answer, while options A, C, and D are incorrect.
Option A is incorrect because catheterizing the client for residual urine volume is an invasive procedure that should only be done if indicated by the primary healthcare provider.
Option C is incorrect because evaluating for normal involution and massaging the fundus are related to uterine function, not urinary function.
Option D is incorrect because obtaining a specimen for urine culture and sensitivity is not necessary unless there are signs of infection, such as fever, dysuria, or foul-smelling urine.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
- A playpen is a portable enclosure that provides a confined space for a child to play in. It can be useful for keeping a child safe and supervised when the caregiver is busy or needs a break, but it should not be used as a substitute for active play or interaction with the caregiver or others.
- A 2-year-old child is in the developmental stage of toddlerhood, which is characterized by rapid physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Toddlers are curious and eager to learn about the world around them, and they need opportunities to explore, experiment, and manipulate objects and materials. They also need stimulation, guidance, and feedback from their caregivers and peers to develop their language, problem-solving, and social skills.
- Keeping a 2-year-old child in a playpen for long periods of time or to prevent them from getting dirty can have negative effects on their development and well-being. It can limit their physical activity, creativity, and independence, and it can cause boredom, frustration, or resentment . It can also interfere with their atachment and bonding with their caregiver, as well as their self-esteem and self-image.
- Therefore, the practical nurse (PN) should use the statement "Children need time to actively explore their environment" in responding to this concern about using a playpen. This statement reflects the developmental needs and rights of the child, and it encourages the caregiver to provide a more stimulating and supportive environment for the child. It also implies that getting dirty is not a problem, but rather a natural and healthy part of play and learning.
- Therefore, option D is the correct answer, while options A, B, and C are incorrect. Option A is incorrect because it is judgmental and may offend or discourage the caregiver.
Option B is incorrect because it is not true that playpens provide a sense of security for the child, as they may feel isolated or restricted in them.
Option C is incorrect because it is not true that playpens provide a safe environment for a toddler, as they may pose hazards such as entrapment, suffocation, or injury from falling or climbing out of them.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason
Empowering the client to feel in charge of his life is essential for promoting coping and a sense of control over the situation. However, it may not be the first priority when the client's safety is in question.
Choice B reason:
Finding the client, a temporary shelter where he can feel safe is important for meeting the client's immediate physical needs, but it can be addressed after ensuring his emotional well-being and safety.
Choice C reason
The client's partner has died in a traumatic event, and the loss of both a loved one and their home can be emotionally overwhelming and distressing. The nurse's first priority should be to assess the client's safety and well-being, especially considering the potential for thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
Assessing for thoughts of self-harm is critical because the client may be experiencing intense grief, guilt, or hopelessness, which can increase the risk of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Identifying these thoughts early allows the nurse to initiate appropriate interventions, provide emotional support, and involve mental health professionals if necessary.
Choice D reason
Reviewing the client's available social support system is significant for addressing the client's emotional needs and establishing a support network. However, ensuring the client's safety takes precedence over this action.
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