A nurse at a pediatric clinic is checking the vital signs of a 2-week-old infant. Which of the following findings is outside of the expected reference range?

A client who is 1 day postpartum and has not voided in 8 hr. This client is at risk of urinary retention, bladder distension, and infection due to the effects of epidural anesthesia, perineal trauma, and fluid shifts after delivery. The nurse should assess the client’s bladder and catheterize if necessary.

Choice A is wrong because a client who is 2 days postpartum and whose fundus is 2 to 4 cm below the umbilicus is showing a normal finding.

The fundus should descend about 1 to 2 cm per day after delivery and be nonpalpable by day 10.

Choice B is wrong because a client who is 3 days postpartum and has not had a bowel movement since prior to admission is not uncommon.

Constipation is a common problem after delivery due to decreased peristalsis, dehydration, and fear of pain.

The nurse should encourage fluid intake, fiber intake, and early ambulation to promote bowel function.

Choice C is wrong because a client who is 4 days postpartum and has lochia serosa is also showing a normal finding.

Lochia serosa is the pinkish-brown discharge that occurs from day 4 to 10 after delivery.

It consists of old blood, serum, leukocytes, and tissue debris.

Ask the client to empty their bladder.

This is because a full bladder can interfere with the pelvic examination and cause discomfort to the client. The nurse should also instruct the client to avoid douching, using tampons, vaginal medications, sprays, powders, birth control foam, cream, or jelly for at least 24 hours before the exam.

Choice A is wrong because the client should be placed in a lithotomy position, not a prone position, for a pelvic examination.

Choice C is wrong because douching can alter the normal vaginal flora and pH, and increase the risk of infection.

Choice D is wrong because placing the client’s arms over their head can tighten the abdominal muscles and make the examination more difficult. The nurse should ask the client to place their arms at their sides or across their chest.