A nurse is assessing a client who is 1 hour postpartum.
Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Temperature 37.7° C (99.9° F).
Boggy fundus.
Lochia rubra with small clots.
Minimal perineal edema.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
A temperature of 37.7° C (99.9° F) in the immediate postpartum period is a relatively common and often benign finding, typically within normal limits or indicating mild dehydration or exertion from labor. A slight elevation is not usually a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other signs of infection, which would warrant further investigation. Normal range is 36.5° C to 37.5° C (97.7° F to 99.5° F).
Choice B rationale
A boggy fundus is a significant finding that the nurse should report immediately. A boggy, soft uterus indicates uterine atony, which means the uterine muscles are not contracting effectively. This significantly increases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to inadequate compression of uterine blood vessels.
Choice C rationale
Lochia rubra with small clots is considered a normal finding in the immediate postpartum period. Lochia rubra is the initial dark red discharge consisting of blood, decidual tissue, and mucus. Small clots are expected as blood clots and detaches from the uterine wall, reflecting normal uterine involution.
Choice D rationale
Minimal perineal edema is a normal and expected finding after vaginal delivery. The trauma of childbirth often results in some degree of swelling in the perineal area. "Minimal" edema indicates that the swelling is not excessive and does not suggest a complication requiring immediate reporting to the provider.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) can be harmful to a developing fetus and newborn. While primary infection during the first trimester can rarely lead to congenital anomalies, the most significant risk is neonatal herpes, which occurs when the newborn is exposed to the virus during passage through the birth canal if active lesions are present. Neonatal herpes can cause severe, life-threatening complications.
Choice B rationale
Transmission of HSV-2 to the newborn is significantly higher if active genital lesions are present at the time of vaginal birth. The virus can be shed from these lesions and infect the infant as they pass through the birth canal. Therefore, a Cesarean section is typically recommended if active lesions are present at the onset of labor.
Choice C rationale
Wearing tight-fitting undergarments can increase moisture and friction, potentially irritating existing lesions and hindering healing. Loose-fitting cotton undergarments are generally recommended to allow air circulation and reduce irritation, promoting a more favorable environment for lesion resolution and comfort.
Choice D rationale
Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, can help manage genital herpes by reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks. They work by inhibiting viral replication. However, these medications do not cure the condition; HSV-2 remains a lifelong viral infection.
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is recommended for pregnant clients during the third trimester, specifically between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. This timing optimizes the transfer of maternal antibodies to the fetus, providing passive immunity against pertussis (whooping cough) in the newborn during their vulnerable early months, before they are old enough to receive their own vaccinations.
Choice B rationale
Inactivated influenza vaccine is highly recommended for pregnant clients during any trimester of pregnancy. Pregnancy alters the immune system, making pregnant individuals more susceptible to severe complications from influenza. Vaccination protects both the mother and, through passive antibody transfer, the newborn from influenza infection.
Choice C rationale
Varicella vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of fetal infection. While the actual risk is very low, it is generally deferred until the postpartum period. Women of childbearing age should be screened for immunity and vaccinated if non-immune prior to conception or postpartum.
Choice D rationale
Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the theoretical risk of fetal infection, particularly with rubella. Rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to congenital rubella syndrome, causing severe birth defects. Vaccination should occur before conception or postpartum.
Choice E rationale
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is not routinely recommended during pregnancy. While current data do not suggest harm, the vaccine has not been extensively studied in pregnant individuals. Vaccination should be completed before pregnancy or deferred until the postpartum period.
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