A nurse is collecting data from a client who is postpartum. Which of the following findings should alert the nurse to the possibility of a postpartum complication?

Choice B reason:
A fundus that is elevated and displaced from the midline indicates a full bladder, which can interfere with uterine contraction and increase the risk of hemorrhage. The nurse should assist the client to void or catheterize her if necessary.

Choice A reason:
Moderate swelling of the labia is a normal finding after vaginal delivery, and does not indicate a need to urinate. The nurse should apply ice packs and perineal pads to reduce edema and discomfort.

Choice C reason:
Moderate lochia rubra is a normal finding during the first 24 hr postpartum, and does not indicate a need to urinate. The nurse should monitor the amount and color of lochia, and change the perineal pads as needed.

Choice D reason:
A blood pressure of 130/84 mm Hg is within the normal range for a postpartum client, and does not indicate a need to urinate. The nurse should monitor the blood pressure for signs of hypertension or hypotension, which can indicate complications such as preeclampsia or hemorrhage.

Choice A reason: Wear a nipple shield is incorrect, as this recommendation is not indicated for a client who has engorged breasts. A nipple shield is a thin, flexible device that covers the nipple and areola and can help with latch problems, flat or inverted nipples, or sore nipples. However, a nipple shield can also reduce milk transfer, stimulate less milk production, and cause nipple confusion or preference.

Choice B reason: Express milk from both breasts is correct, as this recommendation can help relieve engorgement and maintain milk production. Engorgement is a normal and expected phenomenon that occurs when the milk comes in, usually around 72 to 96 hr after birth. Engorgement can cause breast fullness, tenderness, warmth, and hardness. The nurse should advise the client to express milk from both breasts by breastfeeding frequently and effectively or by using a breast pump or hand expression.

Choice C reason: Obtain a prescription for an antibiotic is incorrect, as this recommendation is not indicated for a client who has engorged breasts. An antibiotic is used to treat mastitis, which is an infection and inflammation of the breast tissue that can cause redness, pain, swelling, warmth, and fever in the affected breast. The nurse should assess the client for signs of mastitis and report any abnormal findings to the provider.

Choice D reason: Apply a heating pad to her breasts is incorrect, as this recommendation can worsen engorgement and cause discomfort. A heating pad can increase blood flow and swelling in the breasts, which can impair milk flow and increase pain. The nurse should advise the client to apply cold compresses or cabbage leaves to her breasts to reduce inflammation and discomfort.