A nurse is caring for a client who has just delivered her baby and is at risk for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).
Which intervention should be included in this client’s plan of care?
Administering oxytocin after delivery
Encouraging frequent voiding
Assessing vital signs every 4 hours
Encouraging ambulation as soon as possible
The Correct Answer is A
Oxytocin is a medication that helps the uterus contract and prevent excessive bleeding after birth. It is the most effective treatment for postpartum hemorrhage, even if already used for labor induction or augmentation or as part of active management of the third stage of labor.
Choice B) Encouraging frequent voiding is wrong because it does not directly affect the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. However, a full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction and cause bleeding, so voiding should be encouraged as part of routine care.
Choice C) Assessing vital signs every 4 hours is wrong because it is not enough to detect and treat postpartum hemorrhage early. Vital signs should be monitored more frequently in the first hour after delivery, when most cases of postpartum hemorrhage occur.
Choice D) Encouraging ambulation as soon as possible is wrong because it does not prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
Ambulation can help prevent thromboembolic complications and promote recovery, but it has no effect on uterine contraction
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage, accounting for up to 80% of cases.It occurs when the uterus does not contract enough to stop the bleeding from the placental site.Uterine atony can be caused by factors such as prolonged labor, multiple pregnancy, large baby, infection or use of certain medications.
The other statements are wrong because:
• B.Retained placenta is the second most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage, but it only accounts for about 10% of cases.It occurs when part or all of the placenta remains attached to the uterine wall and prevents the uterus from contracting properly.
• C.Lacerations are tears or cuts in the cervix, vagina or perineum that can cause bleeding after delivery.They are usually minor and can be repaired with stitches, but they can also be severe and require surgery.Lacerations are not very common causes of postpartum hemorrhage, and they usually occur along with other factors such as uterine atony or retained placenta.
• D.Hematomas are collections of blood under the skin or in the tissues that can result from trauma during delivery.They can cause pain, swelling and pressure in the affected area, but they are usually small and resolve on their own.Hematomas are rare causes of postpartum hemorrhage, and they usually occur along with other factors such as lacerations or coagulation disorders.
Normal ranges for blood loss after delivery are less than 500 mL for vaginal birth and less than 1000 mL for cesarean birth.Blood loss greater than these amounts can indicate postpartum hemorrhage and require immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A, B and C. The nurse should monitor intake and output to assess the client’s fluid status and blood loss.
The nurse should elevate the head of the bed to reduce the risk of hypovolemic shock and improve tissue perfusion.
The nurse should apply oxygen via nasal cannula to increase oxygen delivery to the vital organs and prevent hypoxia.
Choice D is wrong because inserting a nasogastric tube is not indicated for a client who has postpartum hemorrhage.
A nasogastric tube is used to decompress the stomach or administer medications or feedings in some conditions.
Choice E is wrong because administering pain medication as needed is not a priority intervention for a client who has postpartum hemorrhage.
Pain medication can mask the signs of shock and lower the blood pressure further.
The nurse should focus on restoring the blood volume and preventing complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.