A nurse is assessing a client who is 6 hr postpartum, tachycardic, and has cool skin. The client reports that they have been bleeding excessively. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Elevate the head of the client's bed.
Administer a dose of terbutaline.
Initiate oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula.
Initiate an infusion of oxytocin.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Elevating the head of the client’s bed is not indicated in this situation and does not address the issue of excessive bleeding postpartum.
Choice B rationale
Administering terbutaline, a medication used to manage preterm labor, is not relevant in the context of postpartum hemorrhage and excessive bleeding.
Choice C rationale
Initiating oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula may help with oxygenation but does not address the primary issue of excessive postpartum bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Initiating an infusion of oxytocin is the correct action as it helps contract the uterus and reduce postpartum bleeding, making it a crucial step in managing this situation.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Transient circumoral cyanosis is common in newborns, especially when crying or feeding, and usually resolves on its own without intervention.
Choice B rationale
Transient strabismus, or the temporary crossing of the eyes, is normal in newborns due to underdeveloped eye muscles and usually resolves as the infant grows.
Choice C rationale
Caput succedaneum is the swelling of the scalp caused by pressure during delivery. It is usually benign and resolves within a few days without treatment.
Choice D rationale
Generalized petechiae, or small red or purple spots on the skin, can indicate a serious underlying condition such as a clotting disorder or infection and requires immediate medical evaluation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Preparing for a cesarean birth is not an immediate necessity unless there are complications that warrant such intervention. Cesarean births are typically reserved for situations where
vaginal delivery poses a risk to the mother or the baby.
Choice B rationale
Administering IV antibiotic prophylaxis is critical in preventing potential infections during the labor process, especially given the early gestation period. This helps in safeguarding both
the mother and the fetus from infections like group B streptococcus.
Choice C rationale
Obtaining a vaginal culture is generally done to check for infections such as bacterial vaginosis or sexually transmitted infections. However, it is not an immediate priority when the
patient is already in active labor.
Choice D rationale
Administering metronidazole orally is used to treat bacterial infections but is not an immediate action required in this scenario. Metronidazole may not be the most suitable choice
during labor as it does not provide immediate infection prevention.