A nurse is caring for a client who is postpartum following a vaginal birth.
Which analgesic medication should the nurse plan to administer and document in the client’s medical record?
Aspirin
Meperidine
Fentanyl citrate
Ibuprofen
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Aspirin is generally not recommended for postpartum pain management due to its anticoagulant properties, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Furthermore, if the mother is breastfeeding, aspirin can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.
Choice B rationale
Meperidine is a strong opioid medication that is typically reserved for severe pain. It is not usually the first choice for postpartum pain management due to its potential side effects and the risk of dependency.
Choice C rationale
Fentanyl citrate is a potent opioid that is typically used for severe pain and is often used in anesthesia. It is not usually used for routine postpartum pain management due to its potency and the risk of side effects and dependency.
Choice D rationale
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used for postpartum pain management. It is effective for relieving perineal pain and uterine cramping, and it is safe for use in breastfeeding mothers.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Placenta previa is a condition where the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix. Vaginal bleeding, often without pain, is a key symptom and requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
While a fetal heart rate of 174 bpm is slightly above the normal range (110-160 bpm), it is not the most critical finding in a patient with complete placenta previa.
Choice C rationale
A fundal height of 33 cm at 32 weeks of gestation is within the expected range and does not require immediate follow-up.
Choice D rationale
An abdomen that is soft and non-tender is a normal finding and does not require immediate follow-up.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Peripheral edema 2+ in bilateral lower extremities is a common finding in the postpartum period and does not necessarily indicate a problem. It can result from the normal fluid shifts that occur after delivery.
Choice B rationale
A blood pressure reading of 136/86 mm Hg is slightly elevated and could indicate the development of postpartum hypertension, a condition that can lead to serious complications such as stroke. This finding necessitates immediate follow-up.
Choice C rationale
Lateral deviation of the uterus could indicate a full bladder, which can interfere with uterine contractions and lead to increased bleeding. This finding necessitates immediate follow-up.
Choice D rationale
Deep tendon reflexes 1+ are within normal limits and do not necessitate immediate follow-up.
Choice E rationale
A large amount of lochia rubra could indicate postpartum hemorrhage, a potentially life- threatening condition. This finding necessitates immediate follow-up.
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