A nurse is conducting an assessment on a client who is 4 hours postpartum following a vaginal delivery. Which of the following findings should the nurse prioritize?
Fundus at the level of the umbilicus
Saturated perineal pad in 30 minutes
Approximated edges of episiotomy
Deep tendon reflexes 4+
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
While the fundus at the level of the umbilicus is a normal finding for a woman who is 4 hours postpartum, it is not the priority in this case. The fundus, which is the top part of the uterus, typically descends at a rate of approximately one fingerbreadth (or one cm) per day, and by the 12th postpartum day, it should no longer be palpable.
Choice B rationale
A saturated perineal pad in 30 minutes is a sign of excessive bleeding, also known as postpartum hemorrhage. This is a serious condition that can lead to shock and other complications if not treated promptly. Therefore, this finding should be prioritized by the nurse.
Choice C rationale
Approximated edges of an episiotomy are a normal finding in the postpartum period. An episiotomy is a surgical incision made in the perineum to enlarge the vaginal opening for delivery. After delivery, the episiotomy is sutured and should heal without complications with proper care. However, this is not the priority finding in this scenario.
Choice D rationale
Deep tendon reflexes 4+ could be a sign of preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the liver and kidneys. However, since the client is already 4 hours postpartum, this is less likely to be the priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is choice C: Respiratory rate.
Choice A rationale:
Fetal heart rate (FHR) is an important assessment for clients experiencing preterm labor, but it is not the priority assessment when administering magnesium sulfate. FHR monitoring is crucial to ensure fetal well-being but is not directly related to the potential adverse effects of magnesium sulfate.
Choice B rationale:
Temperature is an essential assessment parameter, but it is not the priority in this case. Magnesium sulfate administration can cause adverse effects, particularly on the respiratory system, which should be closely monitored.
Choice C rationale:
Respiratory rate is the correct choice because respiratory rate is a priority assessment when administering magnesium sulfate. The drug can cause respiratory depression and other respiratory complications, so monitoring the respiratory rate is essential to ensure the client's safety.
Choice D rationale:
Bowel sounds are not a priority assessment for a client receiving magnesium sulfate. While gastrointestinal side effects can occur with magnesium sulfate use, respiratory assessments take precedence.
In conclusion, the priority nursing assessment for a client receiving magnesium sulfate is the respiratory rate due to the potential respiratory complications associated with the drug. Monitoring respiratory function closely can help prevent adverse outcomes and ensure the client's safety during treatment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While providing age-appropriate stimulation is important for all newborns, it is not the priority nursing goal in caring for a newborn with a myelomeningocele awaiting surgery.
Choice B rationale
Educating the parents about the defect is an important part of care, but it is not the priority nursing goal. The immediate physical needs of the newborn take precedence.
Choice C rationale
This is the correct answer. The sac covering the exposed neural tissue must be carefully protected to prevent infection and further damage. Therefore, maintaining the integrity of the sac is the priority nursing goal.
Choice D rationale
Promoting maternal-infant bonding is important, but it is not the priority nursing goal in caring for a newborn with a myelomeningocele awaiting surgery.
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