The nurse is aware that fibrinogen levels are increased in pregnancy. Which measure can be taken to prevent postpartum complications that result because of this increase? Have the client:
a stool softener as needed
urinate every two to three hours
eat a diet high in protein
walk
The Correct Answer is A
A) A stool softener as needed:
Fibrinogen levels are elevated during pregnancy as part of the body's natural response to the increased risk of bleeding at birth. While this helps to prevent hemorrhage, it also increases the risk of clot formation, which can lead to postpartum complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). To prevent these complications, one recommended strategy is to use a stool softener. This helps prevent constipation, which can strain the body and increase the risk of developing blood clots due to the Valsalva maneuver during straining. Stool softeners reduce the likelihood of this strain, supporting overall circulation and reducing the risk of clotting.
B) Urinate every two to three hours:
While frequent urination is important for general bladder health, particularly in the immediate postpartum period to avoid urinary retention, it is not directly related to preventing complications associated with elevated fibrinogen levels. Fibrinogen's main risk is related to clotting, and frequent urination does not affect this process.
C) Eat a diet high in protein:
While eating a balanced diet with adequate protein is essential for postpartum recovery and tissue healing, it does not directly address the increased fibrinogen levels or the potential for clotting. A high-protein diet does not significantly reduce the risks related to hypercoagulability during the postpartum period, which is primarily managed through careful monitoring and preventive measures such as using stool softeners or encouraging movement.
D) Walk:
While walking is beneficial for overall health and can help improve circulation, reducing the risk of DVT and promoting postpartum recovery, walking alone may not be sufficient to counteract the increased clotting risk from elevated fibrinogen levels. While movement is important to prevent clots, the use of stool softeners to prevent constipation is a more direct and targeted intervention for preventing strain, which could trigger clot formation. Therefore, walking, while helpful, is not the most specific measure to prevent complications related to increased fibrinogen.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Practicing effleurage on the abdomen:
It is an excellent non-pharmacological pain management technique that can help distract the mother, reduce anxiety, and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with early labor. It also promotes relaxation and can help manage early labor pain effectively without the need for medications. This technique is easy to perform and can be done by the nurse or the partner, providing emotional support along with pain relief.
B) Beginning epidural anesthesia:
Epidural anesthesia is typically not initiated in the early phase of labor unless there is a specific indication or a desire for significant pain relief early in the process. An epidural is more commonly offered in the later stages of labor, when the pain is more intense and the cervix is further dilated. Starting an epidural too early could expose the mother to unnecessary risks and is generally not recommended unless it's requested or deemed medically necessary.
C) Using an opioid antagonist, such as Butorphanol:
Opioids, including Butorphanol, can have side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and respiratory depression in both the mother and fetus. These medications are more commonly used in later stages of labor or when more potent pain relief is required. Additionally, opioid antagonists like Butorphanol may not be the best choice for a client who is experiencing anxiety and mild to moderate pain in the early phase, as they may not provide the relaxation and coping support that non-pharmacological methods like effleurage offer.
D) Immersing the client in hot water in a pool or Jacuzzi:
While immersion in water can be a helpful method of pain relief, especially during labor, it is generally recommended in the later stages of labor or when the cervix is dilated enough for water immersion to be safely utilized. Immersion in hot water may not be appropriate for all patients and could potentially lead to risks like overheating or changes in blood pressure. Additionally, the early phase of labor often involves less intense pain, and less invasive methods like effleurage are usually preferred first to manage discomfort and reduce anxiety.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) A postpartum individual can have lochia rubra at 5 weeks postpartum:
Lochia rubra is the first stage of lochia, consisting of bright red blood and tissue, and is typically seen in the first 3-4 days postpartum. By 5 weeks postpartum, the lochia should no longer be in the rubra phase, and the discharge should have progressed to lochia serosa or alba. If the client is still experiencing lochia rubra at 5 weeks, this could indicate a problem, such as retained placental tissue or infection, and requires further evaluation.
B) A postpartum individual should not have any lochia at 5 weeks postpartum:
While it is true that lochia should be minimal or absent by 5 weeks postpartum, it is not uncommon for some women to still experience small amounts of lochia, particularly in the form of lochia alba, which can last up to 6 weeks. The type of discharge should be assessed, and if the discharge is abnormal (such as foul-smelling or accompanied by other symptoms), the nurse should investigate further. However, some amount of discharge, especially lochia alba, can be normal at this stage.
C) A postpartum individual can have lochia serosa up to 6 weeks postpartum:
Lochia serosa, which is pinkish or brownish in color and consists of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue, usually occurs between 4 to 10 days postpartum. It is not typically seen at 5 weeks postpartum unless there is a delay in the normal progression of lochia stages. By 5 weeks postpartum, lochia serosa should have already transitioned to lochia alba, a whitish or yellowish discharge.
D) A postpartum individual can have lochia alba ranging from 10 to 14 days and up to weeks postpartum:
Lochia alba is the final stage of lochia and typically starts around 10–14 days postpartum, lasting up to 6 weeks in some women. It consists mainly of leukocytes, epithelial cells, and mucus, and it is usually white or yellowish in color. This type of discharge is normal in the later weeks postpartum, and its presence at 5 weeks is considered a normal finding as long as it is not accompanied by foul odor, significant odor, or other signs of infection.
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