A nurse is caring for a female client on the postpartum unit.
Based on the 0800 assessment, the nurse should
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Complete the sentence: The nurse should massage the uterus and prepare to administer oxytocin.
Rationale for correct answers:
Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), indicated by a boggy uterus and heavy bleeding with clots. Uterine massage stimulates uterine contractions, promoting involution and reducing bleeding. Oxytocin is a first-line uterotonic agent that increases uterine tone by stimulating smooth muscle contraction, helping to control hemorrhage. Normal hemoglobin is 11-16 g/dL; the client’s drop to 9.4 g/dL and hematocrit decrease to 27% (normal 33%-47%) indicate blood loss requiring prompt intervention.
Rationale for incorrect Response 1 options:
Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is unnecessary here because the client emptied her bladder without difficulty, and urinary retention is not evident. Oxygen administration by nasal cannula is not indicated since the client’s respiratory rate is normal and there is no sign of hypoxia. Immediate oxygen is reserved for hypoxic or unstable patients.
Rationale for incorrect Response 2 options:
Administering oxygen by nasal cannula is not needed without hypoxia signs. Initiating a 1000 mL sodium chloride bolus might be considered later if hypovolemia or hypotension worsens but is not the immediate priority. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not indicated as the bladder is emptying normally, and unnecessary catheterization risks infection.
Take-home points:
- Postpartum hemorrhage is primarily caused by uterine atony, presenting with a boggy uterus and heavy bleeding.
- Prompt uterine massage and administration of oxytocin are critical first-line interventions to control bleeding.
- Laboratory values such as hemoglobin and hematocrit help assess blood loss severity and guide management.
- Differentiation from other causes of bleeding (e.g., retained placenta, lacerations) requires assessment but initial treatment focuses on uterine tone restoration.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A positive pregnancy test detects the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine or blood. While highly suggestive, it is classified as a probable sign because certain conditions other than pregnancy can elevate hCG levels, although these are rare, making it not definitively diagnostic.
Choice B rationale
Amenorrhea, the cessation of menstruation, is a common early indicator of pregnancy due to hormonal changes, specifically rising progesterone levels that inhibit follicular development and uterine shedding. However, various factors unrelated to pregnancy, such as stress or hormonal imbalances, can also cause amenorrhea, categorizing it as a presumptive sign.
Choice C rationale
Fetal heart sounds, when auscultated, are a definitive sign of pregnancy because they directly confirm the presence of a viable fetus. This auditory confirmation is unambiguous and cannot be attributed to any other condition, making it a positive sign of pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Chadwick sign refers to the bluish-purple discoloration of the cervix, vagina, and labia due to increased vascularity and blood flow, typically observed around 6-8 weeks of gestation. While highly indicative of pregnancy, it is considered a probable sign because other conditions can also cause pelvic congestion, although less commonly.
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A single dose of the rubella vaccine is typically sufficient to confer immunity. A second dose is not routinely recommended after postpartum administration. The primary goal is to prevent congenital rubella syndrome in future pregnancies by ensuring the mother develops adequate antibody titers to the virus.
Choice B rationale
The rubella vaccine contains live attenuated virus, which carries a theoretical risk of congenital rubella syndrome if the vaccine virus crosses the placenta during pregnancy. Therefore, clients are advised to avoid conception for at least 1 to 3 months, commonly stated as 4 months, after vaccination to minimize any potential fetal exposure.
Choice C rationale
The rubella immunization typically provides long-lasting immunity. It is not necessary to receive an additional rubella immunization during the first trimester of a subsequent pregnancy. Antibody titers are usually maintained, protecting against future rubella infection and subsequent fetal harm.
Choice D rationale
The rubella vaccine is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. The live attenuated virus is not shed in breast milk in significant amounts that would pose a risk of infection to the infant. Therefore, breastfeeding can continue without interruption after rubella immunization.
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