A nurse is caring for a postpartum client who had a vaginal delivery with an episiotomy.
Which action would help prevent infection of the perineal area?
Applying ice packs to the perineum for the first 24 hours.
Changing the perineal pad from back to front every 2 hours.
Spraying warm water over the perineum after each voiding or bowel movement.
Using an inflatable ring or pillow to sit on for comfort.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is C. Spraying warm water over the perineum after each voiding or bowel movement. This action would help prevent infection of the perineal area by keeping it clean and reducing the risk of bacterial contamination.
A is wrong because ice packs can only help reduce swelling and pain, but not prevent infection.
B is wrong because changing the pad from back to front can introduce bacteria from the rectum to the vagina and perineum, increasing the risk of infection. The correct way is to change the pad from front to back.
D is wrong because an inflatable ring or pillow can increase blood flow to the perineal area and delay healing, which can increase the risk of infection.
A firm surface is better for sitting after delivery.
Some other preventive measures for postpartum infections include washing hands before touching the perineal area, using only maxi pads and not tampons for postpartum bleeding, taking preventive antibiotics if prescribed, and contacting a doctor if symptoms of infection appear.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is A. Decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin levels.This is because postpartum hemorrhage can lead to hypovolemia which can cause a decrease in hematocrit and hemoglobin levels.Increased white blood cell and platelet counts (option B) are not expected findings in postpartum hemorrhage.Decreased prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time (option C) are not expected findings in postpartum hemorrhage.Increased fibrinogen and fibrin degradation products (option D) are not expected findings in postpartum hemorrhage.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D. To stabilize the lower uterine segment.Palpating the uterus after delivery helps to determine its size, firmness and rate of descent, which are indicators of its involution.The nurse places one hand just above the symphysis pubis to support the lower uterine segment and prevent it from being pushed down by the pressure of the other hand on the fundus.This prevents complications such as uterine inversion or prolapse.
Choice A is wrong because uterine prolapse is not prevented by placing one hand above the symphysis pubis, but by supporting the lower uterine segment with that hand.
Choice B is wrong because uterine hemorrhage is not prevented by placing one hand above the symphysis pubis, but by massaging the fundus to make it firm and contract the blood vessels.
Choice C is wrong because uterine inversion is not prevented by placing one hand above the symphysis pubis, but by stabilizing the lower uterine segment with that hand and avoiding excessive traction on the umbilical cord.
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