A nurse is caring for a postpartum client who just delivered a newborn weighing 4.5 kg (10 lb). Which of the following signs should the nurse recognize as a potential indication of hemorrhage?

Choice A rationale
Performing a fundal massage is not the appropriate action for a client with placenta previa who is experiencing a large amount of vaginal bleeding. Fundal massage is typically used to stimulate contractions and reduce postpartum hemorrhage after the delivery of the placenta. However, in the case of placenta previa, where the placenta is covering the cervix, a fundal massage could potentially cause more harm and increase bleeding.
Choice B rationale
Assessing for abdominal tenderness is not the most immediate action for a nurse to take when a client with placenta previa is exhibiting a large amount of vaginal bleeding. While abdominal tenderness could indicate a complication such as placental abruption, the primary concern with placenta previa is the risk of severe bleeding that can endanger both the mother and the baby.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining serial hemoglobin and hematocrit is the correct action in this situation. These laboratory tests are important for monitoring the client’s blood loss and determining the need for a possible blood transfusion. With a large amount of vaginal bleeding, the client is at risk for anemia and hypovolemic shock, so close monitoring of blood levels is crucial.

Choice C rationale

Monitoring vital signs closely is an important part of care for any client, but it is not the most specific action a nurse should take for a client with placenta previa who is experiencing a large amount of vaginal bleeding. Vital sign changes could indicate worsening of the client’s condition, but these changes often occur late in the progression of blood loss. Therefore, while important, it is not the most immediate action to take.

Choice A rationale
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a prenatal test that diagnoses chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, as well as a host of other genetic disorders. While it can determine the sex of the baby, it is not typically used for this purpose.

Choice B rationale
The statement that one cannot have an amniocentesis until they are at least 35 years of age is incorrect. While it is true that amniocentesis is often offered to women over the age of 35 due to an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, it can be performed on anyone at risk, regardless of age.
Choice C rationale
Scheduling the procedure for later in the day is not typically how amniocentesis is planned. It is a medical procedure that requires careful planning and preparation. It is usually performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
This is the correct answer. Amniocentesis is a prenatal test that allows doctors to diagnose a range of genetic and chromosomal disorders. It involves taking a small sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby in the uterus for testing. The procedure can indeed determine if the baby has genetic or congenital disorders.