A nurse is assessing a client who received methylergonovine to treat uterine atony in the fourth stage of labor. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of the medication?

A. Supplement feedings with dextrose water – Dextrose water is not appropriate for newborn feeding. It lacks the necessary calories and nutrients and is not recommended for managing hyperbilirubinemia or hydration.

B. Administer intravenous dextrose – There is no evidence of hypoglycemia or need for IV fluids. This is not indicated based on the current assessment.

C. Obtain a total serum bilirubin – The yellow sclera and cephalohematoma (from vacuum-assisted birth) place the newborn at risk for hyperbilirubinemia. A serum bilirubin level is needed to assess severity.

D. Encourage breastfeeding every 2 hr – This promotes bilirubin excretion through stools and urine, which is essential in managing or preventing jaundice in newborns.

E. Prepare for an exchange transfusion – This is a treatment for severe hyperbilirubinemia or hemolytic disease, and is not indicated at this stage without bilirubin results.

F. Obtain blood cultures – The mother received appropriate intrapartum prophylaxis (2 doses of penicillin G) for GBS. The newborn shows no signs of sepsis (vital signs normal, active, feeding), so cultures are not indicated now.

• Vitamin B12 level: A B12 level of 159 pg/mL is below normal and consistent with pernicious anemia. This condition is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, impairing B12 absorption in the gut. The client’s vegan diet may further reduce B12 intake, worsening deficiency.
• Fatigue: Fatigue results from decreased oxygen delivery to tissues due to low hemoglobin in all anemias. In sickle cell disease, abnormally shaped RBCs impair perfusion. Iron and B12 deficiencies impair RBC production, further contributing to fatigue.
• Ferritin level: Ferritin reflects the body’s iron storage, and a level of 8 ng/mL is below the normal range. Low ferritin confirms iron depletion, a hallmark of iron deficiency anemia. This can result from dietary lack or chronic inflammation, like in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Orthostatic hypotension: Orthostatic hypotension may occur with all anemias due to reduced circulating volume and poor oxygenation. Low hemoglobin and hematocrit lead to impaired vascular tone and autonomic response, causing dizziness or lightheadedness when standing.