A nurse has been monitoring a client who gave birth vaginally 8 hours ago.
Based on the nurse’s notes at 0700 and 1100, select the three findings that necessitate immediate follow-up.
Peripheral edema 2+ in bilateral lower extremities
Blood pressure reading of 136/86 mm Hg
Lateral deviation of the uterus
Deep tendon reflexes 1+
Large amount of lochia rubra .
Correct Answer : B,C,E
Choice A rationale
Peripheral edema 2+ in bilateral lower extremities is a common finding in the postpartum period and does not necessarily indicate a problem. It can result from the normal fluid shifts that occur after delivery.
Choice B rationale
A blood pressure reading of 136/86 mm Hg is slightly elevated and could indicate the development of postpartum hypertension, a condition that can lead to serious complications such as stroke. This finding necessitates immediate follow-up.
Choice C rationale
Lateral deviation of the uterus could indicate a full bladder, which can interfere with uterine contractions and lead to increased bleeding. This finding necessitates immediate follow-up.
Choice D rationale
Deep tendon reflexes 1+ are within normal limits and do not necessitate immediate follow-up.
Choice E rationale
A large amount of lochia rubra could indicate postpartum hemorrhage, a potentially life- threatening condition. This finding necessitates immediate follow-up.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering Oxytocin to the client is an important intervention for postpartum hemorrhage, but it is not the first action the nurse should take. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions which can help control bleeding, but it should be administered after the initial steps of assessing the uterus and ensuring it is firm.
Choice B rationale
Massaging the client’s fundus is the priority action to address excessive vaginal bleeding. A firm, well-contracted uterine fundus often helps to control postpartum bleeding. If the uterus is not well contracted, gentle massage is often sufficient to stimulate contractions. If the uterus does not respond to massage, then further interventions such as administering Oxytocin may be necessary.
Choice C rationale
Providing oxygen to the client via a non-rebreather face mask is an intervention that might be necessary if the client shows signs of hypoxia or shock as a result of the bleeding. However, it is not the first action that should be taken.
Choice D rationale
Emptying the client’s bladder is important as a distended bladder can displace the uterus and interfere with contractions, leading to increased bleeding. However, this is not the first action to take.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice d. Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Choice A rationale:
Cleansing the site with povidone-iodine is not recommended because it can be irritating and potentially harmful to the exposed neural tissue.
Choice B rationale:
Monitoring the rectal temperature every 4 hours is not appropriate as it can increase the risk of infection and trauma to the site. Axillary temperature monitoring is preferred.
Choice C rationale:
Preparing for surgical closure after 72 hours is incorrect. Surgical closure is typically performed within the first 24 to 48 hours to prevent infection and further damage to the neural tissue.
Choice D rationale:
Administering broad-spectrum antibiotics is crucial to prevent infection, especially since the cerebrospinal fluid is leaking, which increases the risk of meningitis and other infections.
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