A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postpartum. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
4+ deep-tendon reflexes
Urine output 2.500 mL/day
Scant lochia rubra with a few small clots
Bilateral ankle edema
The Correct Answer is A
A. 4+ deep-tendon reflexes: Deep-tendon reflexes are typically assessed using a scale ranging from 0 to 4+, with 4+ indicating hyperactive reflexes. In a postpartum client, hyperactive deep-tendon reflexes could indicate a potential complication such as preeclampsia or eclampsia, which require immediate medical attention. Therefore, the nurse should report this finding to the provider promptly.
B. Urine output 2,500 mL/day: A urine output of 2,500 mL/day is within the expected range for a postpartum client and does not require immediate intervention. Adequate urine output is important for assessing renal function and hydration status, but this finding does not indicate an urgent concern.
C. Scant lochia rubra with a few small clots: Scant lochia rubra with small clots is a normal finding in the early postpartum period. Lochia typically progresses from rubra (red) to serosa (pink) to alba (white) over time. As long as the lochia is not excessive or accompanied by large clots, this finding is not concerning and does not require immediate reporting to the provider.
D. Bilateral ankle edema: Mild bilateral ankle edema is common in the postpartum period and is often attributed to hormonal changes and shifts in fluid balance. While the nurse should continue to monitor for signs of worsening edema or other symptoms of preeclampsia, mild edema alone is not typically considered a critical finding requiring immediate reporting to the provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Place the patch on your upper arm": Transdermal scopolamine patches are typically applied behind the ear, not on the upper arm. Placing the patch behind the ear allows for optimal absorption of the medication through the skin.
B. "Replace a dislodged patch onto the same location": If the patch becomes dislodged, it should not be reattached. Instead, a new patch should be applied to a different area behind the ear to prevent skin irritation and ensure continuous drug delivery.
C. "Apply the patch prior to traveling": This is the correct instruction. Transdermal scopolamine patches are applied to the skin at least 4 hours before travel to prevent motion sickness during the journey. Applying the patch in advance allows time for the medication to be absorbed into the bloodstream and provide effective symptom relief.
D. "Store unused patches in the refrigerator": Transdermal scopolamine patches do not typically require refrigeration. They should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration may alter the integrity of the patch and affect its effectiveness.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Performing a simple dressing change on a client's foot - This action is appropriate and within the scope of practice for assistive personnel.
B. Washing hands with alcohol-based hand rub after bathing a client who has Clostridium difficile - Handwashing with alcohol-based hand rub is not effective against Clostridium difficile spores. Proper hand hygiene for C. difficile requires washing with soap and water. The charge nurse should intervene to correct this action and ensure proper infection control procedures are followed.
C. Providing postmortem care for a client who has recently died - Providing postmortem care is within the scope of practice for assistive personnel and is appropriate.
D. Emptying an indwelling urinary catheter bag for a client while wearing clean gloves - This action is appropriate and within the scope of practice for assistive personnel.
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