A nurse is caring for a client who had a vaginal delivery 4 hours ago and reports perineal pain of 6 on a scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Apply a corticosteroid cream to the perineal area twice daily.
Increase the client’s fluid intake for 48 hours.
Catheterize the client’s bladder.
Offer an ice pack to the client during the first 24 hours.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Applying a corticosteroid cream is not appropriate for acute perineal pain. It is more suitable for chronic inflammation or skin conditions.
Choice B rationale
Increasing fluid intake is beneficial for overall health, but it does not directly address acute perineal pain.
Choice C rationale
Catheterizing the bladder is not indicated for perineal pain unless there is a specific issue with urinary retention.
Choice D rationale
Offering an ice pack helps reduce swelling and numb the area, providing immediate relief for acute perineal pain. It is a standard intervention for postpartum perineal discomfort.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Amniotic fluid with meconium noted can indicate fetal distress, but it is not the most immediate priority compared to fetal heart tones.
Choice B rationale
A maternal temperature of 38.3°C (101°F) can indicate infection, but it is not the most immediate priority compared to fetal heart tones.
Choice C rationale
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge can indicate infection, but it is not the most immediate priority compared to fetal heart tones.
Choice D rationale
Fetal heart tones of 98/min indicate fetal bradycardia, which is a sign of fetal distress and requires immediate intervention to ensure the well-being of the fetus.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Agitation is not a common adverse effect of magnesium sulfate therapy. It is more likely to be caused by other factors.
Choice B rationale
Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not a common adverse effect of magnesium sulfate therapy. It is more likely to be caused by other factors.
Choice C rationale
Hyporeflexia, or diminished reflexes, is a significant adverse effect of magnesium sulfate therapy. It indicates magnesium toxicity and requires immediate attention.
Choice D rationale
Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is not a common adverse effect of magnesium sulfate therapy. It is more likely to be caused by other factors.