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","G","H"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Deep tendon reflexes of 1+ are considered within normal limits and do not require immediate follow-up. This finding is not indicative of any acute complications.
Choice B rationale
A blood pressure reading of 136/86 mm Hg is slightly elevated but not critically high. It does not indicate an immediate risk and can be monitored with routine care.
Choice C rationale
A pain rating of 3 on a scale of 0 to 10 is mild and manageable. It does not necessitate immediate follow-up unless there is a sudden and significant increase in pain.
Choice D rationale
A large amount of lochia rubra can be a sign of excessive bleeding and requires immediate follow-up to assess for postpartum hemorrhage. This finding is concerning and needs prompt attention.
Choice E rationale
Peripheral edema of 2+ in bilateral lower extremities is common in the postpartum period due to fluid shifts and should resolve naturally. It does not require immediate follow-up unless it worsens or is accompanied by other symptoms.
Choice F rationale
Soft breasts are normal postpartum when milk has not yet come in or if the client is not breastfeeding. This finding does not require immediate follow-up as it is a normal occurrence.
Choice G rationale
A soft uterine tone can indicate uterine atony, which can lead to hemorrhage. Immediate follow-up is necessary to prevent potential complications such as postpartum hemorrhage.
Choice H rationale
Lateral deviation of the uterus can indicate a displaced uterus, possibly due to a full bladder or other reasons, which requires prompt attention. This finding could lead to complications if not addressed promptly.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.