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.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice C rationale
Checking the fundus helps determine if the uterus is contracting properly, which is essential in managing postpartum bleeding.
Choice A rationale
Measuring vital signs is important but not the first action to control bleeding.
Choice B rationale
Requesting a vaginal examination is necessary but not the immediate action to control bleeding.
Choice D rationale
Feeling for a full bladder is important but not the first action to control bleeding.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
At 1 cm above the umbilicus is the expected position of the uterine fundus 12 hours postpartum. After delivery, the fundus is typically at the level of the umbilicus and then descends approximately 1 cm per day. At 12 hours postpartum, it is normal for the fundus to be slightly above the umbilicus.
Choice B rationale
One fingerbreadth above the symphysis pubis is not the expected position of the fundus 12 hours postpartum. This position is more typical several days postpartum as the uterus continues to involute and return to its pre-pregnancy size.
Choice C rationale
To the right of the umbilicus is not a normal finding and may indicate a full bladder, which can displace the uterus. The nurse should assist the client to void and then reassess the fundal position.
Choice D rationale
Three fingerbreadths above the umbilicus is not expected 12 hours postpartum. This position may indicate uterine atony or subinvolution, which requires further assessment and intervention.