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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Obtain a drug screen for cocaine: Given the symptoms described (tremulous, tachycardic, hypertensive), there may be concern about drug exposure, and cocaine is a substance known to cause such symptoms in newborns. Therefore, obtaining a drug screen for cocaine is a reasonable and important action to determine if there was prenatal exposure.
B. Weigh and measure the newborn: While weighing and measuring the newborn is a routine part of the newborn assessment, it may not be the most crucial action in this context. The symptoms described suggest the need for a more immediate assessment related to possible drug exposure.
C. Determine reactivity of neonatal reflexes: Assessing the reactivity of neonatal reflexes is an important part of the newborn assessment, but in this specific situation, the symptoms described (tremulous, tachycardic, hypertensive) may warrant a more focused and immediate assessment related to drug exposure.
D. Perform gestational age assessment: Gestational age assessment is essential for understanding the newborn's maturity and adjusting care accordingly. However, in this scenario, the immediate concern seems to be the symptoms the newborn is presenting with, and addressing the possibility of drug exposure takes precedence.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Placenta accreta: Placenta accreta is a condition where the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterine wall. While this can be a concern, the client in this scenario has already given birth, so this may not be the highest priority at this moment.
B. Hard, painful uterine afterpains: Afterpains are common in the postpartum period, especially in women who have given birth to multiples. While they can be uncomfortable, they are generally expected and not considered a severe complication.
C. Postpartum psychosis: Postpartum psychosis is a serious mental health condition that can occur after childbirth. It is characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and severe mood disturbances. While it is a serious concern, it might not be the immediate priority in a client who has had a severe postpartum hemorrhage.
D. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): This is a life-threatening condition where there is widespread activation of clotting factors, leading to excessive blood clotting followed by bleeding. Given the history of severe postpartum hemorrhage, DIC is a significant concern, and prompt assessment and intervention are crucial.
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