A woman gave birth vaginally to a 9-lb, 12-ounce girl yesterday. Her primary health care provider has written orders for perineal ice packs, use of sitz bath TID, and a stool softener. What information is most closely correlated with these orders?
The woman has laceration
The woman had her fourth baby
The woman received epidural anesthesia
The woman had a vacuum assisted birth
The Correct Answer is A
A. The woman has a laceration:
The orders for perineal ice packs, sitz baths, and a stool softener suggest that the woman may have sustained perineal trauma, such as a laceration, during childbirth. Ice packs are used initially to reduce swelling and discomfort, while a sitz bath helps with healing and soothing of the perineal area. Stool softeners are prescribed to prevent straining during bowel movements, which could worsen the discomfort of a laceration. These interventions are commonly recommended for women who experience perineal lacerations during vaginal delivery.
B. The woman had her fourth baby:
While the fact that this is the woman’s fourth pregnancy may influence her overall recovery, it is not directly correlated with the orders for ice packs, sitz baths, and stool softeners. Women who have had multiple children may be at a higher risk for perineal trauma due to the stretching of tissues, but this specific care plan is more likely related to a perineal injury, not the number of previous births.
C. The woman received epidural anesthesia:
Epidural anesthesia may be used to manage pain during labor, but it does not directly necessitate the use of ice packs, sitz baths, or stool softeners. While epidurals can sometimes lead to difficulty with bladder or bowel control, they do not typically cause perineal lacerations or require these specific interventions unless there is another issue, such as a laceration, that needs attention.
D. The woman had a vacuum-assisted birth:
Vacuum-assisted births can cause perineal trauma, including lacerations or hematomas, but the order for perineal care (ice packs, sitz baths, stool softeners) is not exclusively linked to vacuum assistance. The woman may have had a laceration during a vacuum-assisted delivery, but it is the laceration itself, rather than the use of the vacuum, that most directly correlates with these interventions. Therefore, the priority care focus is still on addressing the potential for perineal laceration.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is E
Explanation
A) Bulb syringe in crib:
While a bulb syringe can be useful for clearing the infant’s airway in case of respiratory distress, keeping it in the crib is not an optimal safety practice. The syringe should be readily available but not within reach of the infant, as it could be a choking hazard if mishandled. Ideally, it should be stored in an easily accessible area but not within the crib.
B) Secure hugs tag on and alarms activated:
Ensuring that the infant has a security tag (often referred to as a "Hugs" tag) that is properly placed and that alarms are activated is an important safety measure to prevent infant abductions. Hospitals typically use electronic security systems that alert staff if the infant is removed from the designated area without proper authorization. This intervention is essential for maintaining safety in the hospital setting.
C) ID bands match with mom's ID bands:
It is critical that the infant's ID band matches the mother's ID band. This helps prevent any mix-up or baby swap and ensures that the infant is properly identified at all times. Regular checks should be made to verify that the bands match and remain secure throughout the hospital stay.
D) Infant on their back to sleep:
Placing the infant on their back to sleep is a key guideline for reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This position has been proven to be the safest for infants and is a crucial practice for their well-being. Educating parents and caregivers about safe sleep practices is vital for infant safety.
E) All of the above:
All of these practices are part of a comprehensive safety plan for the infant. Ensuring that the infant is safely secured with proper identification, preventing any risk of abduction, promoting safe sleep practices, and ensuring that airway equipment is available are all essential measures in maintaining the safety of the newborn. Therefore, the correct response is "All of the above."
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Assess the woman's fundus and massage it if boggy:
A saturated pad within 15 minutes after delivery suggests a hemorrhage, and the first priority in this situation is to assess the fundus. If the fundus is boggy (soft and not contracted), it is a sign of uterine atony, which is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Massaging the fundus helps stimulate uterine contraction, which can help stop the bleeding.
B) Assess the woman's pulse and BP for signs of hypovolemic shock:
While it is important to monitor vital signs for signs of hypovolemic shock (e.g., increased heart rate, decreased blood pressure, and pale skin), this action would not be the first priority in managing a postpartum hemorrhage. The immediate focus should be on stopping the bleeding by addressing uterine atony. Hypovolemic shock assessment is important, but it comes after the initial steps of managing hemorrhage.
C) Call the woman's primary healthcare provider:
Calling the provider may be necessary if the bleeding does not stop after initial interventions. However, it should not be the first action. The nurse should first assess the uterus and attempt to stop the bleeding by massaging the fundus before calling the provider.
D) Begin an IV infusion of Ringer's lactate solution and administer oxytocin:
Starting an IV infusion and administering oxytocin may be part of the treatment for postpartum hemorrhage, but the first action should be to assess and manage the fundus. Oxytocin can help contract the uterus, but massaging the fundus is the immediate intervention. Intravenous fluids and medications should be initiated once the uterus is assessed and massaged, especially if bleeding persists.
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