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 A reason: The cervix is effaced 3 cm, it is dilated 30%, and the presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines is incorrect, as this does not follow the correct order and measurement of cervical assessment. Cervical effacement is measured in percentage, not in centimeters, and it indicates the thinning or shortening of the cervix. Cervical dilation is measured in centimeters, not in percentage, and it indicates the opening or widening of the cervix.

Choice B reason: The cervix is dilated 3 cm, it is effaced 30%, and the presenting part is 1 cm above the ischial spines is correct, as this follows the correct order and measurement of cervical assessment. Cervical dilation, effacement, and station are recorded in that order to describe the progress of labor. Station refers to the relationship between the presenting part of the fetus and the maternal pelvis, measured by the level of the ischial spines. A negative station means that the presenting part is above the spines, while a positive station means that it is below.

Choice C reason: The cervix is effaced 3 cm, it is dilated 30%, and the presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines is incorrect, as this does not follow the correct order and measurement of cervical assessment. Cervical effacement is measured in percentage, not in centimeters, and it indicates the thinning or shortening of the cervix. Cervical dilation is measured in centimeters, not in percentage, and it indicates the opening or widening of the cervix.

Choice D reason: The cervix is dilated 3 cm, it is effaced 30%, and the presenting part is 1 cm below the ischial spines is incorrect, as this does not match the documentation of station. A negative station means that the presenting part is above the spines, while a positive station means that it is below.

Choice A reason: Encourage the client to nurse more frequently so her milk will come in is incorrect, as this action is not related to the data collected by the nurse. The nurse notes that the client's breasts are soft, which indicates that the milk has not come in yet. This is normal and expected for a client who is 14 hr postpartum, as milk production usually begins around 72 to 96 hr after birth. The nurse should encourage the client to nurse frequently and effectively to stimulate milk production and prevent engorgement.

Choice B reason: Increase IV fluids is incorrect, as this action is not indicated by the data collected by the nurse. The nurse notes that the client's vital signs are within normal limits, except for a slight temperature elevation. Increasing IV fluids can cause fluid overload and electrolyte imbalance in the client. The nurse should maintain the IV fluids at the prescribed rate and monitor the client's intake and output.

Choice C reason: Ask the client to empty her bladder is correct, as this action is indicated by the data collected by the nurse. The nurse notes that the client's fundus is firm but slightly deviated to the right, which suggests bladder distension. A full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction and involution and increase the risk of hemorrhage and infection. The nurse should assist the client to empty their bladder and reassess the fundal position.

Choice D reason: Report the client's temperature elevation is incorrect, as this action is not necessary for a slight temperature elevation in a postpartum client. The nurse notes that the client's temperature is 37.7° C (100° F), which is slightly above normal but within the range of expected findings for a postpartum client. A mild temperature elevation in the first 24 hr after birth can be due to dehydration, exertion, or hormonal changes and does not indicate infection. The nurse should encourage oral fluid intake and monitor the temperature every 4 hr.