A nurse is caring for a female client who is primigravida at 30 weeks of gestation in the antepartum unit.

For each potential intervention, click to specify if the intervention is anticipated or contraindicated for the client. There must be at least 1 selection in every row. There does not need to be a selection in every column.

Choice A rationale: Stopping breastfeeding is not indicated in postpartum infections unless the infection is a contraindication such as HIV or active tuberculosis. Breastfeeding promotes uterine contraction by releasing oxytocin, which helps reduce bleeding and promotes healing. Additionally, breast milk provides immunological benefits to the newborn. The client’s infection appears localized to the uterus (endometritis), and there is no evidence breastfeeding worsens maternal infection or neonatal risk here.

Choice B rationale: Initiating broad-spectrum antibiotics is scientifically appropriate for suspected postpartum endometritis, especially with fever >38°C, tachycardia, foul-smelling lochia, and abdominal tenderness. These antibiotics target polymicrobial infections commonly involving aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, preventing progression to sepsis. Timely antibiotic therapy reduces maternal morbidity and accelerates recovery. Normal temperature is 36.5–37.5°C; this client’s rising fever to 38.9°C indicates infection requiring treatment.

Choice C rationale: Airborne isolation precautions are unnecessary because common postpartum infections such as endometritis are not transmitted via airborne routes but rather by endogenous flora or direct contamination. Airborne pathogens include tuberculosis, varicella, and measles, none of which are suggested by this client’s presentation or history. Implementing unnecessary airborne precautions wastes resources and increases patient isolation without scientific benefit.

Choice D rationale: Strict bedrest is not routinely indicated in postpartum infections unless severe systemic illness is present. Early mobilization improves circulation, reduces risk of venous thromboembolism, and promotes pulmonary function, especially when respiratory rate is elevated at 24/min. The client is alert and breastfeeding, suggesting stable condition. Prolonged immobility increases risks without benefits in mild-to-moderate infection management.

Choice C rationale

The client is tachycardic and has cool skin, indicating potential hypovolemia or shock due to excessive bleeding. Administering oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula increases oxygen delivery to the tissues, improving cellular oxygenation and mitigating the effects of decreased circulating blood volume. This supports vital organ function and helps address tissue hypoxia, a common consequence of significant blood loss. Normal heart rate postpartum is 60-100 beats per minute.

Choice D rationale

Oxytocin is a uterotonic agent that stimulates uterine contractions. A boggy uterus and excessive bleeding are hallmark signs of uterine atony, the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Initiating an infusion of oxytocin will promote uterine contraction, which compresses blood vessels and reduces blood loss, thereby addressing the underlying cause of the client's symptoms and preventing further hemorrhage. Normal lochia should be moderate in amount.