A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing shaking chills during the immediate postpartum period.Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Place the client on seizure precautions.
Cover the client with warm blankets.
Determine the client’s temperature.
Notify the charge nurse.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Placing the client on seizure precautions is not appropriate for shaking chills during the immediate postpartum period. Shaking chills are a common physiological response after childbirth due to hormonal changes and the body’s effort to regulate temperature. Seizure precautions are reserved for clients with a history of seizures or those exhibiting signs of a seizure disorder.
Choice B rationale
Covering the client with warm blankets is the correct action. Shaking chills are often due to the body’s attempt to regain thermal balance. Providing warmth with blankets helps to alleviate the chills and provide comfort to the client.
Choice C rationale
Determining the client’s temperature is important but not the immediate action to take. While it is necessary to monitor for fever, which could indicate an infection, the priority is to provide comfort and warmth to the client experiencing chills.
Choice D rationale
Notifying the charge nurse is not the immediate action required. The nurse should first address the client’s immediate need for warmth and comfort. If the chills persist or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, then notifying the charge nurse would be appropriate.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Measuring leg circumferences is a crucial intervention for a client with thrombophlebitis. This helps in monitoring for any increase in swelling, which can indicate worsening of the condition or the development of complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Regular measurement allows for early detection and timely intervention.
Choice B rationale
Massaging the affected extremity is contraindicated in clients with thrombophlebitis. Massage can dislodge a thrombus, leading to a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Therefore, this intervention should be avoided.
Choice C rationale
Applying cold compresses to the affected extremity is not recommended for thrombophlebitis. Cold compresses can cause vasoconstriction, which may worsen the condition by reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of clot formation.
Choice D rationale
Allowing the client to ambulate is not advisable in the acute phase of thrombophlebitis. Ambulation can increase the risk of thrombus dislodgement and subsequent pulmonary embolism. Bed rest with the affected limb elevated is usually recommended until the acute phase resolves.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ambulation is crucial in preventing thrombophlebitis as it promotes blood circulation and prevents blood stasis, which can lead to clot formation.
Choice B rationale
Warm, moist soaks can provide comfort but do not significantly contribute to preventing thrombophlebitis.
Choice C rationale
Bed rest increases the risk of thrombophlebitis due to decreased circulation and blood stasis.
Choice D rationale
Placing pillows under the knees can impede blood flow and increase the risk of clot formation.