A nurse is caring for a client in the fourth stage of labor after a vaginal delivery.
History and Physical: BP: 144/92 mmHg.
Pulse: 99 bpm.
Respirations: 17/min.
Pulse Ox: 97%. Temperature: 100.4 F (38.0 C). Pain score: 1/10. The nurse should first address the client's ____________ (assessment finding), followed by the client's ____________ (assessment finding).

Choice A rationale:

Rapid weight gain during pregnancy, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, can be a sign of preeclampsia. This condition is characterized by high blood pressure and often occurs after 20 weeks of gestation. Reporting rapid weight gain is important for early detection and management.

Choice B rationale:

Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision, can be a warning sign of preeclampsia. It indicates potential neurological involvement and requires immediate evaluation to prevent complications for both the mother and the fetus.

Choice C rationale:

Elevated blood pressure readings are a critical sign of preeclampsia, a condition that can lead to serious health complications for both the mother and the baby if left untreated. Reporting elevated blood pressure is essential for early intervention and management.

Choice D rationale:

While the respiratory rate is slightly elevated, it is not as critical an indicator of preeclampsia as the other findings. In this case, the focus should be on more concerning symptoms, such as blood pressure and visual disturbances.

Choice E rationale:

Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes (3+) are a clinical sign of preeclampsia. The absence of clonus is a reassuring sign, but the presence of hyperactive reflexes warrants further evaluation and monitoring.

Choice F rationale:

The fetal heart rate (FHT) of 148/min is within the normal range (110-160/min) and does not indicate an immediate concern that needs to be reported. The nurse should focus on the maternal symptoms that suggest preeclampsia.

Choice A rationale:

The statement suggests supplementing with formula due to the baby’s weight loss. However, a 5% weight loss in the first few days is normal for breastfed infants, and formula supplementation is not necessary unless recommended by a healthcare provider. Early breastfeeding should be encouraged to increase milk supply and support newborn weight gain.

Choice B rationale:

This statement correctly indicates that newborns should feed 8 to 12 times per day and on demand to ensure adequate nutrition and promote milk production. Frequent breastfeeding helps establish and maintain milk supply.

Choice C rationale:

Using plastic-lined breast pads can retain moisture and increase the risk of infection or irritation. Sore nipples can be managed with lanolin creams, air-drying, and proper latching techniques during breastfeeding.

Choice D rationale:

Drinking more whole milk is a common misconception and does not directly increase a mother's milk supply. Milk production is influenced by frequent breastfeeding, proper hydration, and balanced nutrition, not by specific types of foods or drinks.

Choice E rationale:

Newborn stools transition from dark greenish meconium to yellow, seedy stools within the first few days of life as breastfeeding becomes established. This indicates effective feeding and milk intake.

Choice F rationale:

It is normal for a breastfeeding mother’s breasts to feel full, warm, and slightly tender as her milk comes in. This indicates that the milk supply is increasing and the body is responding to the newborn’s feeding needs