A nurse is caring for a client who has pregestational diabetes mellitus. Which of the following clinical findings should indicate to the nurse that the client has hyperglycemia?

A. A midline episiotomy is a surgical incision made in the perineal area during childbirth. It is recognized as a risk factor for postpartum infection due to the possibility of bacterial contamination during and after delivery. Proper care and monitoring are essential to prevent infection in the site of the incision.

B.meconium-stained fluid, is not typically a risk factor for maternal infection; it is more a concern for the infant's health if aspirated.

C.gestational hypertension, affects blood pressure during pregnancy but does not directly increase the risk of postpartum infection.

D.placenta previa, is a condition where the placenta covers the cervix, which can lead to bleeding but not infection. Therefore, among the given options, a midline episiotomy is the factor that most significantly places the postpartum client at risk for an infection.

Counterpressure is a technique that involves applying pressure to specific areas of the body during labor to help alleviate pain and discomfort. This technique is particularly helpful during the active phase of labor when contractions are strong and painful. The most common area to apply counterpressure is the lower back, as this is where many women experience the most intense pain during labor.

Option A “Your partner will apply pressure to the top of your uterus during contractions” is incorrect as applying pressure to the top of the uterus is not a recommended technique and could be harmful to the mother and the baby.

Option C “Your partner will apply continuous, firm pressure between your thumb and index finger” is incorrect as this technique is used to alleviate pain and discomfort during contractions in the hand and wrist, not for counterpressure.

Option D “Your partner will apply upward pressure on your lower abdomen between contractions” is incorrect as this technique is used to help turn a baby who is in a posterior position, not for counterpressure.