A nurse is assessing a client who is 4 hours postpartum following a vaginal delivery.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Brisk patellar deep tendon reflexes.
Moderate amount of lochia on the perineal pad over 2 hours.
Fundus at level of umbilicus.
Approximated edges of episiotomy.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Brisk patellar deep tendon reflexes can indicate central nervous system irritability, which might suggest conditions like preeclampsia or eclampsia if accompanied by other symptoms. It's critical to assess and monitor for further complications.
Choice B rationale
A moderate amount of lochia on the perineal pad over 2 hours is normal postpartum bleeding and does not typically indicate an immediate concern if within expected ranges.
Choice C rationale
A fundus at the level of the umbilicus is an expected finding 4 hours postpartum and indicates normal uterine involution. It is not a priority concern at this stage.
Choice D rationale
Approximated edges of an episiotomy indicate that the incision is healing properly without signs of infection or dehiscence. This is a normal and expected finding in the postpartum period.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Turning the newborn's head quickly to one side elicits the tonic neck reflex, not the Moro reflex. The tonic neck reflex involves the newborn's arm extending on the side where the
head is turned and the opposite arm bending at the elbow, resembling a fencing position.
Choice B rationale
Performing a sharp hand clap near the infant elicits the Moro (startle) reflex, which is characterized by the infant throwing their arms outward, opening their hands, and then bringing
the arms back in. This is a response to sudden stimuli and is a normal reflex in newborns.
Choice C rationale
Stroking the outer edge of the sole of the foot from near the heel up toward the toes elicits the Babinski reflex, not the Moro reflex. The Babinski reflex is characterized by the big toe
moving upward or toward the top surface of the foot and the other toes fanning out.
Choice D rationale
Placing a finger at the base of the newborn's toes elicits the plantar grasp reflex, not the Moro reflex. The plantar grasp reflex involves the toes curling around the finger or object
placed at the base of the toes. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Blood pressure should be addressed first due to the client’s elevated BP (144/92 mmHg), which is a potential sign of complications such as preeclampsia.
Choice B rationale
Pulse of 99 bpm is slightly elevated but not immediately concerning compared to the high BP.
Choice C rationale
Respirations are within normal range (17/min) and do not require immediate intervention.
Choice D rationale
Temperature of 100.4°F (38.0°C) is slightly elevated but not as critical as the high BP.