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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
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Preterm Labor Risk: At 32 weeks of gestation, regular contractions every 5 minutes could indicate the onset of preterm labor. This is concerning because preterm labor can lead to preterm birth, which poses significant risks to the baby's health and development.
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Frequency and Intensity: These contractions are occurring frequently (every 5 minutes) and are described as stronger than usual Braxton Hicks contractions. This frequency and the strength of the contractions are unusual for Braxton Hicks, which are typically irregular and less intense.
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Effacement and Cervical Changes: Although the cervix is closed, it is 80% effaced. Effacement means the cervix is thinning, which, in combination with regular contractions, may indicate that the body is preparing for labor.
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Urinary Leakage: The client also reported urinary leakage earlier in the day, which could be a sign of ruptured membranes (water breaking). This, combined with regular contractions, increases the need for careful monitoring.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Terbutaline can cause tachycardia. A heart rate of 132/min is significantly higher than normal and could indicate severe cardiovascular effects.
Choice B rationale
While headaches can occur with terbutaline, they are generally not life-threatening and don't require immediate intervention compared to tachycardia.
Choice C rationale
Nasal congestion is a minor side effect and not a priority compared to a significantly elevated heart rate.
Choice D rationale
Tremors are common with terbutaline use, but they are usually not as concerning as a significantly elevated heart rate