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 ["F","G","H"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Deep tendon reflexes of 1+ are considered normal and do not indicate any immediate concern. Reflexes are graded on a scale from 0 to 4+, with 2+ being normal. A 1+ reflex is slightly diminished but can be normal in some individuals.
Choice B rationale:
A pain rating of 3 on a scale of 0 to 10 is relatively low and manageable. Postpartum pain is expected, and a rating of 3 does not indicate severe pain that requires immediate intervention.
Choice C rationale:
The blood pressure reading of 136/86 mm Hg is slightly elevated but not alarming. Postpartum blood pressure can fluctuate, and this reading does not indicate a hypertensive crisis.
Choice D rationale:
Peripheral edema of 2+ in the bilateral lower extremities is common postpartum due to fluid retention and is not typically a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain or redness.
Choice E rationale:
Soft breasts with intact nipples are normal findings in the early postpartum period, especially if the client is breastfeeding. There is no indication of issues such as mastitis or engorgement.
Choice F rationale:
A large amount of lochia rubra is concerning as it may indicate postpartum hemorrhage. Lochia should gradually decrease in amount and change in color over time. A large amount of bright red blood suggests excessive bleeding that requires immediate follow-up.
Choice G rationale:
A soft uterine tone is abnormal and can indicate uterine atony, which is a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage. The uterus should be firm and contracted to prevent excessive bleeding.
Choice H rationale:
Lateral deviation of the uterus can indicate a full bladder, which can prevent the uterus from contracting properly and lead to increased bleeding. This requires immediate attention to ensure the bladder is emptied and the uterus can contract effectively.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Administering oxygen may help with symptoms like headache and weakness, but it does not address the underlying issue of poor circulation and potential shock. Elevating the legs is more effective in improving blood flow to vital organs.
Choice B rationale
Offering an ice pack is not appropriate for the symptoms described. The client is showing signs of shock, and an ice pack would not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale
Providing a warm blanket may offer comfort, but it does not address the symptoms of shock. Elevating the legs is a more direct intervention to improve circulation and stabilize the client.
Choice D rationale
Elevating the client’s legs helps improve venous return to the heart, increasing cardiac output and stabilizing blood pressure. This is a critical intervention for a client showing signs of shock.