A nurse is caring for a client who is 18 hours postpartum. Which finding should alert the nurse to the possibility of a postpartum complication?
Heart rate 125 bpm.
Fundus palpable at the umbilicus.
Urine output of 3,000 mL in 24 hr.
Orthostatic hypotension.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A heart rate of 125 bpm is significantly elevated and may indicate a postpartum complication such as infection, hemorrhage, or other underlying conditions. Tachycardia in the postpartum period warrants further assessment and intervention to identify and address the cause.
Choice B rationale
The fundus being palpable at the umbilicus is normal for 18 hours postpartum. The uterus gradually descends into the pelvis over the postpartum period, and its position at the umbilicus at this stage is expected.
Choice C rationale
A urine output of 3,000 mL in 24 hours is within the normal range for postpartum diuresis. Increased urine output is common as the body eliminates excess fluid accumulated during pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
Orthostatic hypotension can occur in the postpartum period due to blood volume changes and fluid shifts. While it requires monitoring, it is not as immediately concerning as tachycardia, which may indicate a more serious complication.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Lack of appetite is not typically associated with the taking-in phase of maternal postpartum adjustment. During this phase, the mother is more focused on her own needs, such as rest and recovery from childbirth.
Choice B rationale
Eagerness to learn newborn care skills is more characteristic of the taking-hold phase, which follows the taking-in phase. In the taking-in phase, the mother is more passive and dependent, focusing on her own needs.
Choice C rationale
Discussion of the birth experience is a common behavior during the taking-in phase. The mother often wants to talk about her labor and delivery experience as a way to process and integrate the event.
Choice D rationale
Reconnection with her partner is not a primary focus during the taking-in phase. The mother is more focused on her own recovery and the immediate needs of her newborn.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Changing the dressing on a cesarean incision for a patient who is 1 day post-op requires sterile technique and assessment skills, which are beyond the scope of practice for assistive personnel (AP). This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
Choice B rationale
Documenting the lochia amount on the perineal pad of a client who just transferred from labor and delivery involves assessment and documentation, which are nursing responsibilities. This task should not be delegated to AP.
Choice C rationale
Assessing an area of redness on the breast of a client who is 4 days postpartum requires clinical judgment and assessment skills, which are within the scope of practice for a licensed nurse. This task should not be delegated to AP.
Choice D rationale
Providing a sitz bath to a client who has a third-degree laceration and is 2 days postpartum is an appropriate task for AP. It is a comfort measure that does not require clinical judgment or assessment skills, making it suitable for delegation to AP.