A nurse is caring for a client who is 3 days postpartum in the postpartum unit.
A nurse is caring for a client who is 3 days postpartum. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Obtain a prescription for a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
Initiate airborne isolation precautions.
Place the client on strict bedrest.
Instruct the client to stop breastfeeding.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Obtain a prescription for a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
The client's fever (38.5°C), chills, abdominal pain, malodorous lochia, and tender fundus suggest a potential postpartum infection, such as endometritis. Administering a broad-spectrum antibiotic is necessary to treat the infection. Given the clinical scenario, the nurse should prioritize addressing the client's symptoms and signs that suggest infection and support her well-being postpartum. Here's a breakdown of the appropriate actions:
B. Initiate airborne isolation precautions.
- Not necessary in this case. The client's symptoms and signs do not suggest an airborne infectious disease.
C. Place the client on strict bedrest.
- This is not necessary. While rest is important, strict bedrest may not be required and could increase the risk of other complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
D. Instruct the client to stop breastfeeding.
- Not necessary unless there is a specific contraindication. Instead, the nurse can provide support and advice on managing engorgement and breastfeeding difficulties.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Blood pressure should be assessed as opioid analgesics can cause hypotension, which can be detrimental to both mother and fetus during labor.
Choice B rationale
Fetal heart rate monitoring is essential as opioids can cross the placenta and potentially cause fetal bradycardia or distress, thus necessitating close monitoring.
Choice C rationale
Deep tendon reflexes are not commonly affected by opioid analgesics and therefore are not a primary assessment when administering these medications during labor.
Choice D rationale
Blood glucose levels are not typically influenced by opioid analgesics in the context of labor, so this is not a relevant assessment for this scenario.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
During labor, the body experiences physiological stress, which typically causes an increase, not a decrease, in white blood cell (WBC) count. This increase is a normal response to stress.
Choice B rationale
Blood glucose levels can decrease during labor due to the energy expenditure and physiological demands of the process. This is why it is important to monitor glucose levels and provide necessary interventions if hypoglycemia occurs.
Choice C rationale
The respiratory rate generally increases during labor to meet the increased oxygen demands of the body. A decrease in respiratory rate is not expected during this time.
Choice D rationale
Body temperature may increase slightly during labor due to the physical exertion and metabolic activity involved. A decrease in temperature is not a typical finding during labor. .
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