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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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Galactopoiesis is the process of lactation maintenance and is reliant on breast stimulation and milk removal. This stage involves the ongoing production of milk in response to the infant’s demand.
Choice B rationale
Lactogenesis II refers to the onset of copious milk secretion that occurs around 2-3 days postpartum. It is triggered by the withdrawal of progesterone following the delivery of the placenta.
Choice C rationale
Mammogenesis is the development of the mammary glands during pregnancy. It involves the growth and differentiation of the breast tissue in preparation for lactation.
Choice D rationale
Lactogenesis I refers to the initial stage of milk production that begins during pregnancy and continues through the early postpartum period. It is hormonally driven and prepares the breasts for lactation. .
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An increase in lochia is not an indicator of the effectiveness of oxytocin. Lochia is the vaginal discharge after childbirth and its amount can vary.
Choice B rationale
The absence of breast pain is not related to the effectiveness of oxytocin, which is used to prevent postpartum hemorrhage by promoting uterine contractions.
Choice C rationale
An increase in blood pressure is not an expected outcome of oxytocin administration. Oxytocin primarily affects the uterus.
Choice D rationale
A firm fundus to palpation indicates that the uterus is contracting effectively, which is the desired effect of oxytocin administration to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.