A nurse is teaching a client who is at risk for postpartum hemorrhage about the signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock.

Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply)

This indicates a need for blood transfusion because it is below the normal range of 12 to 16 g/dL for women.

Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues.A low hemoglobin level can cause symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

Choice B is wrong because hematocrit 30% is within the normal range of 37 to 47% for women.

Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in the blood.A low hematocrit can indicate blood loss, but it is not a criterion for blood transfusion by itself.

Choice C is wrong because platelets 150,000/mm3 are within the normal range of 150,000 to 450,000/mm3 for both men and women.

Platelets are the cells that help with blood clotting.A low platelet count can increase the risk of bleeding, but it is not a criterion for blood transfusion by itself.

Choice D is wrong because potassium 4 mEq/L is within the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L for both men and women.

Potassium is an electrolyte that helps with nerve and muscle function.

A high or low potassium

The correct answer is choice A, C, D and E.These are the signs and symptoms of hypovolemic shock, which is a life-threatening condition caused by severe blood loss.Hypovolemic shock can occur in postpartum women who have postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which is excessive bleeding after childbirth.

Choice B is wrong because hypertension is not a sign of hypovolemic shock.In fact, hypotension (low blood pressure) is one of the signs of hypovolemic shock.

Normal ranges for vital signs in postpartum women are:

• Heart rate: 60 to 100 beats per minute

• Blood pressure: 110/70 to 140/90 mmHg

• Respiratory rate: 12 to 20 breaths per minute

• Urine output: at least 30 mL per hour

Question 34.