A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 hours postpartum.
The client has an IV infusion of lactated Ringer’s with 25 units of oxytocin and large lochia rubra.
Vital signs include blood pressure 146/81, pulse 80/min, and respirations 18/min.
Which of the following actions should the nurse clarify with the provider?
Administer oxygen by non-rebreather mask at 5 L/min.
Administer methylergonovine 0.2 mg IM now.
Insert a urinary catheter.
Increase the infusion rate of the IV fluid.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Oxygen administration is not indicated in this situation. The client's vital signs are stable, and there is no evidence of
respiratory distress.
Oxygen administration could potentially mask signs of postpartum hemorrhage, which is a serious complication.
It is important to assess the client's respiratory status closely, but oxygen should not be administered unless there is a clear
indication for it.
Choice B rationale:
Methylergonovine is a medication that is used to treat postpartum hemorrhage.
It works by contracting the uterus and reducing blood flow.
However, it is a potent medication that can have serious side effects, such as hypertension and seizures.
It is important to clarify the order with the provider before administering this medication.
The provider may want to assess the client further or consider other options before ordering methylergonovine.
Choice C rationale:
Inserting a urinary catheter is not necessary in this situation.
The client is not experiencing any urinary problems, and there is no evidence of bladder distention.
Catheterization can increase the risk of urinary tract infection, so it should only be performed when there is a clear indication
for it.
Choice D rationale:
Increasing the infusion rate of the IV fluid may be helpful in some cases of postpartum hemorrhage.
However, it is important to assess the client's fluid status before increasing the infusion rate.
Too much fluid can lead to pulmonary edema, which is a serious complication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The fundus at the umbilicus level is a normal finding in the immediate postpartum period. After delivery, the top of the uterus
(known as the fundus) is typically at the level of the umbilicus. In the days following delivery, the uterus begins to shrink and
descend into the pelvic cavity, guided by the process known as involution.
Choice B rationale:
A urinary output of 3,000 mL is unusually high and could indicate a postpartum complication. Postpartum diuresis is common
as the body eliminates excess fluid accumulated during pregnancy. However, excessive urinary output could be a sign of
postpartum complications such as postpartum preeclampsia, which can occur after the birth of the baby and is characterized
by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys.
Choice C rationale:
A temperature of 100.4 F for two days postpartum can be a normal finding. It’s not uncommon for women to experience a
slight elevation in temperature in the first 24 hours after delivery due to the exertion of labor. However, a temperature above100.4 F beyond the first 24 hours could indicate an infection and should be evaluated.
Choice D rationale:
A cesarean section shortly following delivery is not typically a sign of a postpartum complication. It’s a surgical procedure used to deliver the baby and can be planned or unplanned due to various reasons such as the baby’s position, multiple pregnancies, or complications during labor. However, like any surgery, a cesarean section does carry risks and can increase the likelihood of certain postpartum complications such as infection or blood clots.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Oxytocin is a hormone that causes the uterus to contract. It is often given to women after childbirth to help the uterus return
to its normal size and to prevent heavy bleeding. Therefore, monitoring the consistency of the fundus (the upper part of the
uterus) is an effective way to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication.
Choice B rationale:
While urinary output is an important vital sign to monitor in all patients, it is not directly related to the effectiveness of
Oxytocin. Oxytocin does not have a significant effect on urinary output.
Choice C rationale:
Blood pressure is another vital sign that should be monitored in all patients. However, it is not the primary indicator of
Oxytocin’s effectiveness. While Oxytocin can cause blood pressure changes, these are usually transient and not the primary
intended effect of the medication.
Choice D rationale:
Heart rate, like blood pressure and urinary output, is an important vital sign to monitor in all patients. However, it is not the
primary indicator of Oxytocin’s effectiveness. Oxytocin does not have a significant direct effect on heart rate.
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