A nurse is caring for a client who is 6 hours postpartum following a vaginal birth.
The client has saturated a perineal pad within 15 minutes.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Assess the client's blood pressure.
Assess the bladder for distention.
Massage the client's fundus.
Prepare to administer a prescription.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Assessing the client's blood pressure can help determine if there is a significant loss of blood and consequent hypotension. However, it is not the immediate first action to manage heavy bleeding postpartum.
Choice B rationale
Assessing the bladder for distention is crucial as a full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction, potentially leading to increased bleeding. But, it isn't the first priority compared to addressing the immediate bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Massaging the client's fundus is the priority action in this case. It helps to contract the uterus, thereby reducing bleeding. Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage, and fundal massage is the first intervention to manage it.
Choice D rationale
Preparing to administer a prescription may be necessary, especially if uterotonics are required. However, this is a subsequent step after attempting to control the bleeding through fundal massage.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The placenta does not provide thermoregulation; that function is managed by maternal thermoregulation and the amniotic fluid which insulates the fetus.
Choice B rationale
Amniotic fluid cushions the fetus from maternal movements, not the placenta. The placenta's role is more focused on nutrient and waste exchange.
Choice C rationale
The placenta facilitates metabolic functions and gas exchange, supplying oxygen and nutrients to the fetus while removing carbon dioxide and waste products, ensuring fetal development.
Choice D rationale
The placenta doesn't provide a sterile environment. This is accomplished by the amniotic sac and amniotic fluid. The placenta connects the fetus to maternal blood supply, ensuring necessary exchanges for fetal growth.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Copious vernix is typically found on preterm newborns, not those born post-term.
Choice B rationale
Dry, cracked skin is a common finding in post-term newborns due to prolonged exposure to amniotic fluid.
Choice C rationale
Decreased subcutaneous fat is more likely in preterm newborns, while post-term newborns might lose some fat due to nutrient depletion.
Choice D rationale
Scant scalp hair is more common in preterm infants, whereas post-term infants usually have more developed hair. .
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