The nurse is caring for a postpartum client who is complaining of severe pain and a feeling of pressure in her perineum. Her fundus is firm and she has a moderate lochial flow. On inspection, the nurse finds that a perineal hematoma is beginning to form. Which assessment finding should the nurse obtain first?
Hemoglobin and hematocrit
Abdominal contour and bowel sounds
Heart rate and blood pressure
Urinary output and IV fluid intake
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hemoglobin and hematocrit:
While monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit levels is important for assessing blood loss, in the immediate situation of a developing perineal hematoma with severe pain and pressure, assessing vital signs takes precedence to identify any signs of circulatory compromise.
B. Abdominal contour and bowel sounds:
These assessments are not the first priority in this situation. The client's complaint of severe pain and pressure in the perineum indicates a localized issue that needs immediate attention.
C. Heart rate and blood pressure:
This is the correct answer. Assessing the client's heart rate and blood pressure is crucial to identify signs of shock or compromised circulation associated with the perineal hematoma.
D. Urinary output and IV fluid intake:
While monitoring urinary output and IV fluid intake is important for overall assessment, in the context of a perineal hematoma, assessing vital signs is more immediate to identify any signs of hemodynamic instability.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["12"]
Explanation
To solve this problem, the nurse needs to convert the units of oxytocin from units to milliunits.
One unit of oxytocin is equal to 1000 milliunits, so 10 units of oxytocin is equal to 10,000 milliunits.
- The concentration of oxytocin in the solution is 10,000 milliunits per 1000 mL, or 10 milliunits per mL.
- To deliver 2 milliunits per minute, the nurse needs to infuse 0.2 mL per minute of the solution.
- To convert from mL per minute to mL per hour, the nurse needs to multiply by 60 minutes per hour.
- Therefore, the nurse should program the infusion pump to deliver 0.2 x 60 = 12 mL per hour of the solution.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Monitor blood pressure, pulse, and respirations every 4 hours: Monitoring vital signs is important, especially in a client with eclampsia. However, the frequency of monitoring may need to be increased, particularly if the client's condition is unstable.
B. Keep an airway at the bedside: This is a crucial intervention. Eclampsia can lead to seizures, and having airway management equipment readily available is essential to ensure the client's safety during and after a seizure.
C. Allow liberal family visitation: While family support is important, the priority in eclampsia management is the safety and well-being of the client. Family visitation should be allowed, but it may need to be balanced with the need for a controlled and safe environment.
D. Assess temperature every hour: While monitoring temperature is a part of routine care, it may not be the highest priority in the context of eclampsia. Monitoring for signs of imminent seizure activity and maintaining a safe environment take precedence.
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