A nurse is caring for a patient who is 7 days postpartum and calls the clinic to report pain and redness in her left calf. Besides seeing her provider, which interventions should the nurse suggest?
Flex her knee while resting.
Apply cold compresses.
Massage the area.
Elevate her leg.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Flexing the knee while resting does not typically alleviate the symptoms of a possible DVT15161718.
Choice B rationale
Applying cold compresses is not typically recommended for the symptoms of a possible DVT15161718.
Choice C rationale
Massaging the area is not recommended, especially if the patient is showing signs of a possible DVT, as it could dislodge a clot.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the leg can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow, which can help alleviate pain associated with a possible DVT15161718.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D
Choice A rationale: Notifying the provider is important but not the first priority in this situation. The maternal hypotension (BP 92/54 mm Hg) and elevated maternal heart rate (128/min) suggest decreased perfusion, which can compromise uteroplacental blood flow. Immediate intervention is required before notifying the provider, especially if positioning can restore circulation and fetal oxygenation. Waiting to call without correcting the underlying cause may result in fetal distress or worsening maternal status.
Choice B rationale: While uncontrolled pain may contribute to elevated maternal heart rate, the hypotension and tachycardia suggest a more urgent hemodynamic imbalance. Pain management may become appropriate after stabilizing maternal circulation. Focusing on pain relief first delays essential interventions to improve perfusion, risking fetal compromise due to inadequate uteroplacental oxygen delivery. The fetal heart rate of 130/min is reassuring, but maternal circulation must be prioritized to sustain it.
Choice C rationale: A full bladder can contribute to uterine displacement, but there is no indication in the scenario that bladder distention is an issue. Voiding may be done later but does not address the immediate concern of maternal hypotension and compensatory tachycardia. Uteroplacental perfusion depends heavily on maternal blood pressure, and bladder status has secondary importance in the acute phase of circulatory compromise.
Choice D rationale: Elevating one hip improves venous return and cardiac output by relieving pressure on the inferior vena cava, which is compressed by the gravid uterus in the supine position. This correction reduces hypotension and restores uteroplacental perfusion. The maneuver is a first-line response for maternal hypotension in labor, helping stabilize both mother and fetus quickly. Fetal oxygen delivery depends on adequate maternal perfusion, which this position supports.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cocaine use is a risk factor for placental abruption, but it is not the most common one. Cocaine can cause vasoconstriction and decrease placental perfusion, leading to abruption.
Choice B rationale
Blunt force trauma, such as that from a car accident or physical violence, can cause placental abruption. However, it is not the most common risk factor.
Choice C rationale
Cigarette smoking is a risk factor for many pregnancy complications, including placental abruption. Smoking can impair placental function and lead to poor pregnancy outcomes.
Choice D rationale
Hypertension is the most common risk factor for placental abruption. High blood pressure can cause damage to the blood vessels in the placenta, leading to abruption.
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