A 36-year-old patient who is gravida 5 para 5 (G5P5) was transferred to the postpartum unit 1 hour after delivery of a 9 lb 1 oz (4.1 kg) female.
She was in labor for 25 hours and forceps were used to assist with the delivery.
She was given an epidural for anesthesia that was effective.
The labor and delivery nurse reported that the patient had a 4th degree laceration, and her pain was currently at a 4 on a 0 to 10 pain scale.
Her vital signs were stable.
Based on the assessment data, the nurse recognizes the need to intervene immediately.
Select the 5 priority interventions that the nurse should initiate based on the recent assessment.

The findings suggest that the client’s condition has improved.

Choice A rationale

A total blood loss of 800 mL is a significant amount, but it is within the normal range for blood loss during and after childbirth. Therefore, this does not necessarily put the client at risk for hypovolemia.

Choice B rationale

A fundus that is firm and at the level of the umbilicus indicates that the uterus is contracting properly after childbirth, which helps to prevent excessive bleeding.

Choice C rationale

The expulsion of multiple large clots could indicate that the body is effectively clotting blood, which can prevent excessive bleeding.

Choice D rationale

A blood pressure of 110/80 mm Hg, a heart rate of 66 beats/minute, and an oxygen saturation of 98% on room air are all within normal ranges, indicating that the client is stable and not at risk for hypovolemia.

Choice A rationale

An increased pulse rate can be a sign of pain in infants. The heart rate increases as the body’s way of coping with the stress of pain.

Choice B rationale

Skin showing peripheral pallor is not typically associated with pain. It can be a sign of other conditions, such as anemia or shock, but it’s not a reliable indicator of pain.

Choice C rationale

Clenched fists can be a sign of pain in infants. It’s a common non-verbal cue that infants use to express discomfort.

Choice D rationale

An increased respiratory rate can also be a sign of pain. Like an increased heart rate, it’s a physiological response to stress.

Choice E rationale

Restlessness can be a sign of discomfort or pain in infants. Infants may squirm, fidget, or have trouble settling down when they’re in pain.

Choice F rationale

An elevated temperature is not typically a direct sign of pain, but it can indicate an underlying condition that might be causing pain, such as an infection.