A client who is 7 days postpartum calls the provider’s office and reports pain, swelling, and redness of her left calf.Besides the client seeing the provider, which of the following interventions should the nurse suggest?
Massage the area.
Elevate the leg.
Apply cold compresses.
Flex the knee while resting.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Massaging the area is not recommended as it can dislodge a clot and cause it to travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism. This can be life-threatening and should be avoided.
Choice B rationale
Elevating the leg helps to reduce swelling and pain by promoting venous return. This is a standard intervention for managing symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and helps prevent further complications.
Choice C rationale
Applying cold compresses is not effective for DVT. Cold compresses are generally used to reduce inflammation and pain in acute injuries, but they do not address the underlying issue of a blood clot.
Choice D rationale
Flexing the knee while resting can increase the risk of clot dislodgement and is not recommended. Keeping the leg straight and elevated is a safer approach to managing DVT symptoms.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice D rationale
Applying an ice pack to the perineum is the recommended action for unrelieved episiotomy pain within the first 24 hours following delivery. Ice helps reduce swelling and provides pain relief.
Choice A rationale
Placing a soft pillow under the client’s buttocks is not effective and can increase pressure and swelling on the perineal area, worsening the pain.
Choice B rationale
Positioning a heating lamp toward the episiotomy is not recommended as it can increase the risk of burns and does not effectively reduce swelling.
Choice C rationale
Preparing a warm sitz bath can be beneficial after the first 24 hours but is not the initial action for unrelieved pain within the first 8 hours.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Sore nipples with cracks and fissures can indicate an infection or improper breastfeeding technique, requiring medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Scant nonodorous white vaginal discharge is normal postpartum and does not require contacting the provider.
Choice C rationale
Uterine cramping during breastfeeding is a normal physiological response due to oxytocin release.
Choice D rationale
Decreased response with sexual activity can be normal postpartum and does not necessarily require immediate medical attention.