A client who is two weeks postpartum calls her obstetrician’s nurse and states that she has had a white discharge for about a week but today she is bleeding and saturating one pad about every 30 minutes. Which of the following is the appropriate response from the nurse?
“That is normal; you may have loosened your stitches.”.
“You may be starting to menstruate again.”.
“Go to the emergency department.”.
“You should stay on complete bed rest until the bleeding subsides.”.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Stating the bleeding is normal and linking it to stitches being loosened downplays the severity. Postpartum bleeding that saturates one pad in 30 minutes requires urgent evaluation to prevent complications like hypovolemic shock.
Choice B rationale
Menstruation typically resumes several weeks to months postpartum, depending on lactation. Heavy bleeding in this scenario is unlikely to be menstrual and requires medical attention to rule out hemorrhage or uterine atony.
Choice C rationale
Significant postpartum bleeding exceeding normal lochia patterns suggests a possible hemorrhage or retained products of conception, warranting immediate emergency department evaluation for prompt treatment and stabilization.
Choice D rationale
Bed rest is not appropriate in this case, as the heavy bleeding could indicate a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical intervention rather than conservative management like rest.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["5"]
Explanation
Step 1 is (1000 mcg ÷ 200 mcg/tablet) = 5 tablets. The nurse should administer 5 tablets.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Gastric problems later in life are not an immediate concern for infants with myelomeningocele, as they often arise secondary to neurological impairments or medications but do not pose immediate life-threatening risks at birth.
Choice B rationale
Respiratory depression in infants with myelomeningocele is rare unless coexisting brainstem anomalies or complications from anesthesia are present, which are typically managed during medical interventions.
Choice C rationale
Decreased cardiac output is not a primary risk in infants with myelomeningocele unless there is a coexisting cardiac anomaly, which is not a routine feature of this congenital condition.
Choice D rationale
Infection is a critical immediate risk due to the open neural tube defect in myelomeningocele, which exposes the spinal cord and meninges to environmental pathogens, increasing the risk of meningitis or systemic infection.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.