The nurse has received shift report on the postpartum unit. Which patient should the nurse see first?
First baby, day of delivery, fundus 2 cm above umbilicus deviated to left.
Second baby, first postpartum day, hypoactive bowel sounds all quadrants.
Third baby, first postpartum day, 3 cm diastasis recti abdominis
Second baby, third day post-cesarean, moderate lochia serosa.
The Correct Answer is A
A) First baby, day of delivery, fundus 2 cm above umbilicus deviated to left:
This is the most urgent situation. The fundus should typically be at the level of the umbilicus on the first postpartum day. A fundus that is 2 cm above the umbilicus and deviated to the left may indicate that the bladder is full, which can cause uterine displacement. This is a priority because if the bladder is not emptied, it could lead to uterine atony or hemorrhage. The nurse should first assess the bladder and encourage the client to void, or catheterize if needed, to correct the deviation.
B) Second baby, first postpartum day, hypoactive bowel sounds all quadrants:
Hypoactive bowel sounds on the first postpartum day can be expected, particularly after a cesarean section or due to the effects of medications such as opioids. While this finding should be monitored, it is not as urgent as a potential issue with uterine positioning that could affect bleeding or uterine tone.
C) Third baby, first postpartum day, 3 cm diastasis recti abdominis:
Diastasis recti abdominis, where the abdominal muscles separate, is a common finding postpartum, especially after multiple pregnancies. While it may cause discomfort, it is generally not an immediate concern unless there is significant pain or other complications. It can be addressed with physical therapy over time.
D) Second baby, third day post-cesarean, moderate lochia serosa:
Lochia serosa is the expected discharge 3 days postpartum after a cesarean. Moderate lochia serosa is normal at this stage and does not indicate an immediate problem. The nurse should continue to monitor the lochia, but this is not as urgent as addressing the possible uterine displacement and bladder issue in Option A.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Abdominal with synchronous chest movements:
Newborns primarily exhibit abdominal breathing, meaning that the diaphragm does most of the work while the chest movements are less pronounced. This is normal for full-term neonates, and the chest and abdomen move in a synchronous manner as the baby breathes. This pattern is indicative of an immature respiratory system that is still developing, but it is completely normal in the early stages of life.
B) Chest breathing with nasal flaring:
While some chest movement is observed in newborns, the primary pattern of breathing is abdominal. Nasal flaring is generally an abnormal sign in newborns and may indicate respiratory distress, such as when there is an obstruction in the airway or a need for increased oxygen intake. It is not considered a normal, healthy breathing pattern in newborns.
C) Diaphragmatic with chest retraction:
Diaphragmatic breathing is normal, but chest retraction is not. Retractions occur when there is increased effort to breathe, and they typically indicate respiratory distress or obstruction. In a healthy, full-term newborn, retractions should not be present. This type of breathing would require further investigation to rule out conditions like respiratory distress syndrome or infection.
D) Deep with a regular rhythm:
Newborns may have irregular breathing patterns, including periods of apnea (a few seconds without breathing) and slight irregularity in rhythm, especially during sleep. Deep, regular breathing without any irregularities is not typical in a newborn, and any consistent deep breathing would require further observation to rule out any potential underlying issues.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Skin to Skin contact:
Skin-to-skin contact, also known as "kangaroo care," is a highly beneficial practice for both the mother and the infant in the immediate postpartum period. It promotes bonding by enhancing emotional connections, helps the infant maintain their body temperature through the transfer of warmth from the mother’s chest, and supports the initiation of breastfeeding, which is essential for the infant's nourishment. Additionally, skin-to-skin contact stimulates the release of oxytocin, which can aid in uterine contractions and promote involution of the uterus.
B) Swaddling the infant:
While swaddling the infant can provide comfort and a sense of security, it does not directly promote bonding or help with temperature regulation as effectively as skin-to-skin contact does. Swaddling can help the infant feel secure and prevent the startle reflex but does not have the same physiological benefits in terms of promoting involution or maintaining body temperature.
C) Allowing family members to hold the infant:
While allowing family members to hold the infant can help with bonding, it does not offer the same immediate physical benefits as skin-to-skin contact between the mother and infant. Skin-to-skin contact is particularly beneficial in terms of temperature regulation and promoting the early stages of breastfeeding, which can help with the involution of the uterus.
D) None of the above:
This option is incorrect because skin-to-skin contact has been shown to promote bonding, help regulate the infant's temperature, and support postpartum recovery processes, including uterine involution.
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