A nurse is teaching about home safety with a client who is 2 days postpartum. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Rationale:

A. Applying an ice pack to the incision site is not indicated for addressing vaginal bleeding after cesarean birth and may not effectively address the underlying cause.

B. Replacing the surgical dressing is not the first action to take when assessing vaginal bleeding after cesarean birth. The priority is to evaluate the client's condition and identify the cause of the bleeding.

C. Evaluating urinary output is important to assess for urinary retention, which can contribute to uterine atony and postpartum bleeding. A full bladder can interfere with uterine contraction and lead to increased bleeding.

D. Administering a lactated Ringer's IV bolus may be indicated if the client is hypovolemic due to excessive bleeding, but it is not the first action to take. Assessing urinary output and addressing potential causes of bleeding take precedence.

Rationale:

A. Vaginal candidiasis would not typically contraindicate the use of a suppository for constipation.

B. A third-degree perineal laceration involves injury to the anal sphincter and rectal mucosa, making the use of a suppository contraindicated due to the risk of exacerbating the injury and causing further discomfort.

C. Abdominal distention may indicate constipation, which could be a reason for using a suppository, rather than a contraindication.

D. Afterpains, or uterine cramping after childbirth, would not typically contraindicate the use of a suppository for constipation.