A nurse is collecting data from a patient who gave birth one week ago.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a manifestation of endometritis?
Increased heart rate.
Decreased appetite.
Swelling in the ankles.
Dry skin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice C rationale:
Endometritis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is a common complication after childbirth,
affecting up to 1 in 10 women who deliver vaginally. Symptoms of endometritis typically develop within 1-3 days after
childbirth, but they can sometimes take up to a week to appear.
Swelling in the ankles is a common symptom of endometritis. This is because endometritis can cause inflammation and fluid
buildup in the pelvis, which can put pressure on the veins in the legs and cause them to swell.
Choice A rationale:
An increased heart rate can be a symptom of endometritis, but it is not a specific symptom. An increased heart rate can also be
caused by many other factors, such as fever, dehydration, and anxiety.
Choice B rationale:
Decreased appetite can be a symptom of endometritis, but it is not a specific symptom. Decreased appetite can also be caused
by many other factors, such as pain, fatigue, and nausea.
Choice D rationale:
Dry skin is not a typical symptom of endometritis. Dry skin can be caused by many other factors, such as dehydration,
medications, and underlying medical conditions.
Therefore, the most likely manifestation of endometritis in this patient is swelling in the ankles.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Dinoprostone can be used to induce labor or terminate a pregnancy, but it is not accurate to say that it universally "assists with
ending the pregnancy."
Its primary action is to ripen the cervix, making it softer and more open, which can then lead to labor or facilitate other
medical interventions.
However, it's important to provide a more precise and informative response to the client's query.
Choice B rationale:
While dinoprostone can stimulate uterine contractions, this is not its primary purpose when used to prepare the cervix for
labor or other procedures.
Focusing solely on uterine contractions might lead to misunderstanding or undue concern for the client.
It's essential to emphasize the cervical ripening aspect of the medication.
Choice C rationale:
Dinoprostone does not relax uterine contractions. In fact, it can potentially increase the frequency and intensity of
contractions.
Stating that it relaxes contractions would be factually incorrect and could mislead the client about the medication's expected
effects.
Choice D rationale:
This is the most accurate and comprehensive response to the client's question.
Dinoprostone primarily functions to soften and efface the cervix, which is a crucial step in preparing for labor or certain
medical procedures related to pregnancy.
By promoting cervical ripening, dinoprostone can help facilitate a smoother and potentially less complicated labor process.
It's essential to provide the client with clear and accurate information about the medication's intended purpose.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The presence of a “bloody show” from the vagina is a normal part of labor. It’s caused by the expulsion of the mucus plug that
has sealed the cervix during pregnancy. This is a common occurrence and does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice B rationale:
Early decelerations in the Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) are usually not a cause for concern. They are often a sign of head
compression, which is a normal occurrence during labor. Therefore, this finding does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice C rationale:
Uterine contractions lasting 2 minutes could be a sign of a complication known as “uterine tachysystole” or “hyperstimulation”. This condition can reduce oxygen supply to the baby and may require medical intervention. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Feeling pelvic pressure with contractions is a normal part of the second stage of labor. This pressure is due to the baby moving
down into the birth canal. Therefore, this finding does not need to be reported to the provider.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today