A nurse is caring for a client who has experienced postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony.
Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate administering?
Methylergonovine maleate (Methergine)
Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4)
Oxytocin (Pitocin)
Carboprost tromethamine (Hemabate)
The Correct Answer is C
Oxytocin is the most effective medication for preventing and treating postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony, which is the failure of the uterus to contract after delivery. Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions and reduces bleeding.
Choice A is wrong because methylergonovine maleate (Methergine) is a second-line uterotonic drug that can cause hypertension and should not be used in women with high blood pressure.
Choice B is wrong because magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is used to prevent seizures in women with preeclampsia or eclampsia, not to treat postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice D is wrong because carboprost tromethamine (Hemabate) is another second-line uterotonic drug that can cause severe diarrhea and bronchospasm and should not be used in women with asthma.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Oxytocin is a hormone that causes the uterine muscles to contract and compress the blood vessels that connect the uterus to the placenta.This helps prevent excessive bleeding after delivery, especially in cases of uterine atony, which is the failure of the uterus to contract sufficiently.
Choice B is wrong because oxytocin does not have any direct effect on infection or wound healing.
Choice C is wrong because oxytocin does not enhance milk production, although it does facilitate milk ejection during breastfeeding.Choice D is wrong because oxytocin does not relieve pain or discomfort from uterine cramping, but rather causes it by stimulating contractions.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
These are the instructions that the nurse should include in the teaching for a client who had a postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony.
• Choice A is correct because foul-smelling lochia or fever can indicate an infection of the uterus or other reproductive organs, which can worsen bleeding and cause complications.
• Choice B is correct because iron intake and supplements can help replenish the blood loss and prevent anemia.
• Choice C is correct because sexual intercourse can cause trauma to the healing tissues and increase the risk of infection and bleeding.The lochia usually stops within four to six weeks after delivery.
• Choice D is wrong because limiting fluid intake can cause dehydration and impair blood circulation and clotting.The client should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and promote healing.
• Choice E is correct because pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the muscles that support the uterus and bladder, and prevent prolapse and urinary incontinence.
Uterine atony is a condition where the uterus does not contract enough after delivery, which can lead to excessive bleeding or postpartum hemorrhage.It is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage, accounting for up to 80% of cases.It can be caused by several factors, such as multiple pregnancy, large baby, prolonged or rapid labor, obesity, uterine fibroids, or medications that affect uterine contractions.It requires immediate medical treatment to stop the bleeding and prevent shock and organ failure.
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