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.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Sneezing is a reflex action to clear the nasal passages and is not a feeding cue. It does not indicate hunger but is more likely related to environmental irritants or the baby adjusting to breathing air.
Choice B rationale
Moving legs in a bicycle motion is a common newborn reflex that is associated with general activity or discomfort, rather than a specific signal of hunger. This movement is typically seen during periods of wakefulness or while the baby is trying to soothe themselves.
Choice C rationale
Putting their hand to their mouth is a well-recognized hunger cue in newborns. This behavior often precedes crying and indicates that the baby is ready to feed. It's a self-soothing mechanism that also signals hunger.
Choice D rationale
Extending both arms to the side of their body is more related to the Moro reflex, which is a startle reflex in response to a sudden movement or noise. It is not associated with feeding cues or hunger.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Phototherapy is a treatment for jaundice but is not a preventive measure. It is used after jaundice has been identified to reduce bilirubin levels in the newborn.
Choice B rationale
Suctioning excess mucus with a bulb syringe helps clear the newborn’s airways but does not have a direct role in preventing jaundice. Jaundice is related to bilirubin metabolism, not
mucus accumulation.
Choice C rationale
Preparing for an exchange blood transfusion is an intervention for severe hyperbilirubinemia but is not a preventive measure for jaundice. It is used when bilirubin levels are
extremely high.
Choice D rationale
Initiating early feeding helps to promote bowel movements, which assists in the excretion of bilirubin from the body. This is an effective preventive measure for jaundice, as it helps
reduce the chances of bilirubin buildup.