A nurse is caring for a postpartum client who saturates a perineal pad in 10 minutes. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Administer oxytocin.

Observe for pooling of blood under the buttocks.

Check the client's blood pressure.

Massage the client's fundus.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Massage the client’s fundus. This is because the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage is uterine atony, which is the failure of the uterus to contract after delivery. Massaging the fundus can stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding by compressing the blood vessels at the placental site.

Choice A is not correct because administering oxytocin is not the first action to take. Oxytocin is a medication that can also help the uterus contract, but it should be given after assessing the uterine tone and bleeding.

Choice B is not correct because observing for pooling of blood under the buttocks is not a priority action. It can help estimate the amount of blood loss, but it does not address the cause of bleeding or stop it.

Choice C is not correct because checking the client’s blood pressure is not the first action to take. Blood pressure can indicate hypovolemia due to blood loss, but it is not a sensitive indicator and may remain normal until a significant amount of blood is lost.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Endometritis. This is because the client's symptoms suggest that she has endometritis, which is an infection of the lining of the uterus. Endometritis is a common postpartum complication that can occur after vaginal or cesarean delivery. The client may also have foul-smelling vaginal discharge, chills, and fatigue.

Choice B is wrong because cystitis is an infection of the bladder that causes pain or burning during urination, not cramping.

Choice C is wrong because dehydration does not cause fever or persistent cramping.

Choice D is wrong because hypovolemic shock is a condition of low blood volume that causes low blood pressure, rapid pulse, and pale skin, not fever or cramping.

A. Massage the fundus B. Initiate measures that encourage voiding C. Position the patient flat D. Notify the doctor

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Massage the fundus. This is because massaging the fundus (the upper part of the uterus) can help the uterus contract and prevent excessive bleeding after delivery. A soft, boggy uterus indicates uterine atony, which is a failure of the uterus to contract sufficiently after childbirth.

Uterine atony is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly¹².

Choice B is not correct because initiating measures that encourage voiding is not the appropriate intervention for a soft, boggy uterus. A full bladder can interfere with uterine contractions and cause bleeding, so it is important to empty the bladder after delivery. However, this should be done after massaging the fundus.

Choice C is not correct because positioning the patient flat is not the appropriate intervention for a soft, boggy uterus. Positioning the patient flat can increase blood loss and reduce venous return. The patient should be positioned with the head slightly elevated and the legs flexed to improve blood circulation and prevent shock³.

Choice D is not correct because notifying the doctor is not the first intervention for a soft, boggy uterus. Notifying the doctor is important if bleeding persists or worsens despite massaging the fundus. The doctor may order medications or other treatments to stop the bleeding and prevent complications¹.

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A nurse is caring for a postpartum client who saturates a perineal pad in 10 minutes. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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