Which of the following are common methods used for the induction of labor in obstetric practice? (Select All that Apply)

Choice A rationale

The risk for newborn infection is primarily associated with prolonged rupture of membranes or maternal infection during labor, not directly with the administration of general anesthesia during a cesarean birth.

Choice B rationale

While the postpartum period is a time of increased risk for DVT due to hormonal changes and decreased mobility, general anesthesia itself does not significantly increase this risk compared to regional anesthesia. Surgical procedures in general increase DVT risk.

Choice C rationale

General anesthesia can lead to uterine atony, a condition where the uterus fails to contract adequately after delivery. This lack of contraction can result in postpartum hemorrhage, making postpartum bleeding the greatest risk associated with general anesthesia in this scenario.

Choice D rationale

The risk for infection is primarily associated with the surgical incision and the postpartum period in general, not specifically with the type of anesthesia used during the cesarean birth.

Choice A rationale

In the immediate postpartum period, it is normal to observe lochia rubra, which is a dark red discharge, and the passage of small blood clots. A firm, midline fundus at the umbilicus indicates that the uterus is contracting effectively to control bleeding. Given these expected findings within the first hour postpartum, continued monitoring is the appropriate initial action.

Choice B rationale

Notifying the provider is usually indicated when there are deviations from the expected postpartum findings, such as excessive bleeding, a boggy uterus, or signs of infection. The current assessment does not indicate such complications.

Choice C rationale

Encouraging the client to empty her bladder is important in the postpartum period as a full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction and lead to increased bleeding. However, with a firm, midline fundus and expected lochia, this is not the priority action over continued monitoring.

Choice D rationale

Increasing the frequency of fundal massage is indicated when the uterus is boggy or not contracting effectively, leading to increased bleeding. The client's fundus is already firm, so increasing massage is not the immediate priority.