A nurse is reinforcing teaching about umbilical cord care with a client who is postpartum.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale:

To prevent thrombophlebitis in a postpartum client following a cesarean birth, it is important to promote good circulation and prevent stasis of blood in the lower extremities. Placing pillows under the client's knees while she is resting in bed helps elevate the legs slightly and promotes better venous return, reducing the risk of thrombophlebitis. This position facilitates improved circulation and is a recommended practice.

Choice B rationale:

Applying hot moist soaks to the client's lower legs is not a recommended intervention to prevent thrombophlebitis. In fact, heat can increase inflammation and may worsen the condition. This option would not contribute to the client's plan of care for thrombophlebitis prevention.

Choice C rationale:

Assisting the client to ambulate in the hallway is a good practice to prevent thrombophlebitis, but it may not be suitable for a client who is only 1 day postpartum following a cesarean birth. Early ambulation is encouraged but should be done gradually and at the client's own pace to avoid undue stress on the incision site. Placing pillows under the knees while resting in bed is a more appropriate initial intervention.

Choice D rationale:

Keeping the client on bed rest is not the best option for preventing thrombophlebitis in a postpartum client. Immobility can increase the risk of stasis and clot formation. Promoting circulation, such as elevating the legs with pillows, is a more effective strategy to reduce the risk of thrombophlebitis.

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should prioritize the client's needs based on the severity of their condition. A client scheduled for discharge in 2 hours following a laparoscopic tubal ligation is generally stable and not in immediate need of care. Discharge planning can be done later.

Choice B rationale:

A client who experienced a cesarean birth 4 hours ago and reports pain requires immediate attention. Pain is a subjective symptom that should be addressed promptly to ensure the client's comfort and well-being. Uncontrolled pain can lead to complications and negatively affect the client's overall recovery.

Choice C rationale:

A client with preeclampsia and a blood pressure of 138/90 mm Hg is a concerning situation, but it is not the top priority in this scenario. Preeclampsia requires monitoring and intervention, but the client who just had a cesarean birth and is experiencing pain should be attended to first.

Choice D rationale:

A client who experienced a vaginal birth 24 hours ago and reports no bleeding is not a high-priority concern. Some clients may have minimal bleeding or none at all after a vaginal birth, and this can be normal. The absence of bleeding alone does not warrant immediate attention.