When planning the care for a client during the first 24 hours postpartum, the nurse expects to monitor the client's pulse and blood pressure frequently based on the understanding that the client is at risk for which condition?
Thromboembolism
Cervical laceration
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhage
The Correct Answer is D
Hemorrhage. This is because postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is severe bleeding and loss of blood after childbirth that can lead to death. The most common cause of PPH is the uterus not contracting properly after delivery. The nurse needs to monitor the client’s pulse and blood pressure frequently to detect signs of shock and blood loss.
Choice A is wrong because thromboembolism is a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel, not a complication of bleeding.
Choice B is wrong because cervical laceration is a tear in the cervix that can cause bleeding, but it is not a common cause of PPH.
Choice C is wrong because hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum that can cause bleeding, but they are not a common cause of PPH.
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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.
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.
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