Which measure would the nurse expect for preventing postpartum hemorrhage?

Choice A rationale

A pulse rate of 80 and regular does not directly indicate Methergine's effectiveness. Normal pulse ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. This could result from overall stabilization rather than medication effect.

Choice B rationale

A firm uterine fundus at the umbilicus and moderate lochia indicate effective uterine contraction and hemostasis, reflecting successful intervention with Methergine in managing postpartum hemorrhage.

Choice C rationale

A blood pressure of 120/80 is within the normal adult range but does not specifically reflect Methergine's uterotonic action. Blood pressure monitoring is essential but not the primary efficacy indicator.

Choice D rationale

An increase in prothrombin time reflects coagulation changes but is unrelated to Methergine's mechanism of action. It focuses on hemostatic effects via uterine contractions rather than coagulation pathways.

Choice A rationale

Hypoxia may contribute to tachypnea and distress, but it is unlikely the primary cause, as baseline fetal heart rate of 180 BPM indicates infection-related stress rather than isolated oxygen deprivation.

Choice B rationale

Respiratory distress syndrome predominantly affects preterm infants due to surfactant deficiency. At 37 weeks’ gestation, surfactant levels should be adequate, making this an unlikely cause of the newborn’s tachypnea and pallor.

Choice C rationale

Prolonged rupture of membranes increases the risk of neonatal sepsis. Signs such as tachypnea, pallor, and elevated fetal heart rate with marked variability suggest systemic infection requiring immediate evaluation and treatment.

Choice D rationale

Phrenic nerve injury typically causes diaphragmatic paralysis, leading to asymmetric chest movement and respiratory distress. However, it does not explain the systemic signs like pallor or elevated heart rate, making it an unlikely cause.