A nurse is caring for a client who gave birth 4 hr ago and is experiencing excessive vaginal bleeding. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take first?
Elevate the client's legs to a 30° angle.
Insert an indwelling urinary catheter.
Massage the client's fundus.
Initiate an infusion of oxytocin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale:
The nurse should first massage the client's fundus to address the excessive vaginal bleeding. Massaging the fundus helps the uterus contract and prevents further bleeding. Excessive postpartum bleeding may indicate uterine atony, which is a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The nurse should apply gentle pressure to the fundus to promote uterine contractions and reduce bleeding.
Choice A rationale:
Elevating the client's legs to a 30° angle (Trendelenburg position) is not the priority action in this situation. Fundal massage takes precedence because it directly addresses the cause of the excessive bleeding. While Trendelenburg position might be used in some situations to increase blood flow to vital organs, it is not the first-line intervention for postpartum bleeding.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority action for excessive vaginal bleeding. While monitoring urine output is essential, the immediate concern is controlling the bleeding by massaging the fundus.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating an infusion of oxytocin may be indicated if fundal massage alone is insufficient to control bleeding. However, massaging the fundus should be the first action taken to promote uterine contractions. Oxytocin can be administered afterward, if needed, under the direction of a healthcare provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Fresh cabbage leaves have been traditionally used as a home remedy to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with breast engorgement. The coolness of the cabbage leaves can provide a soothing effect, and they may also have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling. However, it is important to note that this should be used as a complementary measure and not a substitute for medical treatment or advice if the engorgement is severe or persistent.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Assess the fetal heart rate pattern.
Choice B rationale:
When a laboring client's membranes have just ruptured, the nurse's next action should be to assess the fetal heart rate pattern. Rupture of membranes can lead to changes in amniotic fluid, which can affect the fetal environment and potentially cause fetal distress. By assessing the fetal heart rate pattern, the nurse can determine if the baby is tolerating the labor process well or if there are signs of fetal compromise that require further intervention.
Choice A rationale:
While assessing the client's blood pressure (Choice A) is important during labor, it is not the immediate next action when the membranes have ruptured.
Choice C rationale:
Taking the client's temperature (Choice C) is also important, but it is not the priority action when the membranes have ruptured.
Choice D rationale:
Preparing for a c-section (Choice D) is not the initial action unless there are specific indications for an emergency cesarean section. Assessing the fetal heart rate is more critical at this stage.
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