After the delivery of the placenta, a nurse in labor and delivery examines the umbilical cord.
Which of the following vessels should the nurse expect to observe in the umbilical cord?

Choice A rationale

A moderate amount of swelling is not normal during a testicular self-examination. Any swelling or lumps should be reported to a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Choice B rationale

The testicles should indeed be examined after a bath or shower. The warmth of the water relaxes the scrotal sac and makes it easier to feel for any abnormalities. This is the correct answer.

Choice C rationale

The testicular self-examination should not be performed twice a week. It is recommended to perform the examination once a month.

Choice D rationale

Abnormalities are not detected by pinching the testicles. Instead, the testicles should be rolled gently between the fingers and thumb to feel for any lumps or bumps.

Choice A rationale

The client who has an indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage is not at risk for hypokalemia. The kidneys regulate the balance of potassium by removing excess potassium into the urine. The use of a urinary catheter would not affect this process.

Choice B rationale

The client who has a chest tube to water seal is not at risk for hypokalemia. Chest tubes are used to treat conditions that can cause the lung to collapse, such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pleural effusion. They do not affect the body’s potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

The client who has a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction is at risk for hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can occur with loss of gastric fluids because these fluids contain potassium. With an NG tube to suction, these fluids are being removed from the body, which can lead to a decrease in potassium levels.

Choice D rationale

The client who has a tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen is not at risk for hypokalemia. A tracheostomy tube allows air to enter the lungs. It does not affect the body’s potassium levels.