Five days after a spontaneous vaginal delivery, a woman comes to the emergency room because she has a fever and persistent cramping. The nurse recognizes that the cause of these signs and symptoms may be:
Endometritis
Cystitis
Dehydration
Hypovolemic shock
The Correct Answer is A
Endometritis. This is because the client's symptoms suggest that she has endometritis, which is an infection of the lining of the uterus. Endometritis is a common postpartum complication that can occur after vaginal or cesarean delivery. The client may also have foul-smelling vaginal discharge, chills, and fatigue.
Choice B is wrong because cystitis is an infection of the bladder that causes pain or burning during urination, not cramping.
Choice C is wrong because dehydration does not cause fever or persistent cramping.
Choice D is wrong because hypovolemic shock is a condition of low blood volume that causes low blood pressure, rapid pulse, and pale skin, not fever or cramping.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Massage the fundus. This is because massaging the fundus (the upper part of the uterus) can help the uterus contract and prevent excessive bleeding after delivery. A soft, boggy uterus indicates uterine atony, which is a failure of the uterus to contract sufficiently after childbirth.
Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly¹².
Choice B is not correct because initiating measures that encourage voiding is not the appropriate intervention for a soft, boggy uterus. A full bladder can interfere with uterine contractions and cause bleeding, so it is important to empty the bladder after delivery. However, this should be done after massaging the fundus.
Choice C is not correct because positioning the patient flat is not the appropriate intervention for a soft, boggy uterus. Positioning the patient flat can increase blood loss and reduce venous return. The patient should be positioned with the head slightly elevated and the legs flexed to improve blood circulation and prevent shock³.
Choice D is not correct because notifying the doctor is not the first intervention for a soft, boggy uterus. Notifying the doctor is important if bleeding persists or worsens despite massaging the fundus. The doctor may order medications or other treatments to stop the bleeding and prevent complications¹.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Fundus firm, at the level of the umbilicus. This is because the normal postpartum uterine fundus location should be around the belly button (umbilicus) one hour after delivery and then decrease by 1 cm per 24 hours. A firm fundus indicates that the uterus is contracting well and preventing bleeding.
Choice A is wrong because a soft fundus indicates uterine atony, which is a risk factor for hemorrhage.
Choice C is wrong because the fundus should not be above the umbilicus 12 hours after delivery.
Choice D is wrong because a fundus to the right of the umbilicus indicates a full bladder, which can displace the uterus and cause bleeding.
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