The nurse is caring for a postpartum client who is complaining of severe pain and a feeling of pressure in her perineum. Her fundus is firm and she has a moderate lochial flow. On inspection, the nurse finds that a perineal hematoma is beginning to form. Which assessment finding should the nurse obtain first?
Hemoglobin and hematocrit
Abdominal contour and bowel sounds
Heart rate and blood pressure
Urinary output and IV fluid intake
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hemoglobin and hematocrit:
While monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is important for assessing blood loss, in the immediate situation of a developing perineal hematoma with severe pain and pressure, assessing vital signs takes precedence to identify any signs of circulatory compromise.
B. Abdominal contour and bowel sounds:
These assessments are not the first priority in this situation. The client's complaint of severe pain and pressure in the perineum indicates a localized issue that needs immediate attention.
C. Heart rate and blood pressure:
This is the correct answer. Assessing the client's heart rate and blood pressure is crucial to identify signs of shock or compromised circulation associated with the perineal hematoma.
D. Urinary output and IV fluid intake:
While monitoring urinary output and IV fluid intake is important for overall assessment, in the context of a perineal hematoma, assessing vital signs is more immediate to identify any signs of hemodynamic instability.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Instruct the client to maintain bed rest for 24 hours:
There is no clear indication for bed rest based solely on a slightly elevated temperature. Bed rest is not a standard recommendation for this situation.
B. Encourage the client to increase her intake of oral fluids:
Increasing fluid intake is a general recommendation for mild elevations in temperature. Adequate hydration can support the body's natural response to infection or inflammation.
C. Schedule a visit with the healthcare provider today:
This option is a prudent choice. A temperature elevation after a medical procedure may indicate an infection, and it's appropriate to schedule a visit with the healthcare provider for further evaluation.
D. Verify the administered Rho(D) immune globulin's compatibility:
While verifying the compatibility of the administered medication is important, it is not the primary concern when a client reports an elevated temperature. In this context, addressing the temperature and potential infection takes precedence.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Calcium:
Calcium is essential for the development of fetal bones and teeth, but it is not specifically linked to preventing neural tube defects like anencephaly.
Iron:
Iron is crucial for preventing anemia in pregnancy, supporting increased blood volume. However, it is not directly associated with preventing neural tube defects.
Folic acid:
Folic acid is vital for preventing neural tube defects, including anencephaly. It's recommended for women of childbearing age and especially during the early stages of pregnancy.
Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is important for bone health, but its primary function is not directly related to preventing neural tube defects like anencephaly.
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