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
Encouraging the client to empty her bladder is a common practice to prevent uterine atony and excessive bleeding. However, in this scenario, the fundus is already midline and firm at the umbilicus, indicating that the uterus is well-contracted. Therefore, this action is not necessary.
Choice B rationale
Notifying the client’s provider is not required in this situation. The findings of a light amount of lochia rubra and a firm, midline fundus are normal for 6 hours postpartum. There are no signs of complications that would necessitate contacting the provider.
Choice C rationale
Documenting the findings and continuing to monitor the client is the appropriate action. The client’s condition is stable, and the findings are within the expected range for 6 hours postpartum. Ongoing monitoring will ensure that any changes in the client’s condition are promptly addressed.
Choice D rationale
Increasing the frequency of fundal massage is not needed in this case. The fundus is already firm and midline, indicating that the uterus is well-contracted. Excessive fundal massage can cause discomfort and is unnecessary when the uterus is already in a good position.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The rubella vaccine should not be taken during pregnancy. It is a live attenuated vaccine, and there is a theoretical risk of harm to the developing fetus. Therefore, it is recommended to receive the vaccine before pregnancy.
Choice B rationale
The rubella vaccine is not recommended during each pregnancy. It is typically given as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine series in childhood, and immunity is usually lifelong. A booster dose is not needed during each pregnancy.
Choice C rationale
The rubella vaccine is not related to the Rh status of the baby. The vaccine is given to prevent rubella infection, which can cause serious birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
The correct statement is that the client should avoid pregnancy for 28 days after receiving the rubella vaccine. This is to ensure that the live attenuated virus does not pose a risk to a developing fetus.