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 that the uterus has contracted well and the bleeding has stopped.Oxytocin is a drug that helps the uterus to contract and prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which is excessive bleeding after childbirth.

Choice B is wrong because the lochia flow should be moderate and dark red, not bright red.Bright red blood suggests active bleeding and possible PPH.

Choice C is wrong because the blood pressure is low and the pulse is high, which are signs of shock due to blood loss.PPH can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and lead to shock or death.

Choice D is wrong because the urine output is low and the specific gravity is high, which are signs of dehydration due to blood loss.PPH can cause fluid imbalance and kidney damage.

Methylergonovine is a medication that stimulates uterine contractions and helps prevent or treat postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony or retained placental fragments.However, it can also cause an increase in blood pressure, so the nurse should monitor the client’s blood pressure before and after giving the medication.

Choice B. Temperature is wrong because methylergonovine does not affect the client’s temperature.

Choice C. Respiratory rate is wrong because methylergonovine does not affect the client’s respiratory rate.

Choice D. Oxygen saturation is wrong because methylergonovine does not affect the client’s oxygen saturation.

Normal ranges for blood pressure are 120/80 mmHg or lower for systolic and diastolic pressures respectively.

Normal ranges for temperature are 36.5°C to 37.5°C or 97.7°F to 99.5°F.

Normal ranges for respiratory rate are 12 to 20 breaths per minute.Normal ranges for oxygen saturation are 95% to 100%.