A nurse is caring for a client who is postpartum and has an episiotomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Instruct the client to apply anesthetic spray to the site three to four times a day.
Encourage the client to change perineal pads at least three times a day.
Assist the client to fill the squeeze bottle with cold water to perform perineal care.
Alternate warm and ice packs to the site every 2 hours for the first 24 hours postpartum.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Instructing the client to apply anesthetic spray to the site three to four times a day is incorrect. While anesthetic sprays can help with pain relief, it's more important to manage swelling and discomfort with a combination of methods, including ice packs and perineal care.
Choice B rationale
Encouraging the client to change perineal pads at least three times a day is insufficient. Pads should be changed more frequently to maintain hygiene and prevent infection.
Choice C rationale
Assisting the client to fill the squeeze bottle with cold water to perform perineal care is incorrect. While perineal care is important, cold water is not typically recommended as it may not provide comfort and might even cause discomfort.
Choice D rationale
Alternating warm and ice packs to the site every 2 hours for the first 24 hours postpartum is correct. This method helps manage pain and swelling effectively, promoting healing and comfort for the client.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Remaining in the sitz bath for only 10 minutes might not provide enough relief for a postpartum client with an episiotomy and hemorrhoids. Extended periods in a sitz bath can help reduce pain and promote healing.
Choice B rationale
Using numbing spray before cleansing is helpful for pain management, but it is not as beneficial as other methods for reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Choice C rationale
Placing a heat pack to the area several times a day can help with pain but might not be as effective as other options in reducing swelling and promoting healing of hemorrhoids and episiotomy sites.
Choice D rationale
Applying witch hazel pads after urination helps reduce swelling, provides soothing relief, and promotes healing for both hemorrhoids and episiotomy sites. Witch hazel has natural astringent properties that are beneficial for postpartum perineal care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Wearing an underwire bra is not recommended for clients with inverted nipples as it can cause discomfort and restrict milk flow. Proper support without constriction is essential.
Choice B rationale
Placing breast shells in the client's bra helps to draw out inverted nipples by applying gentle pressure, making breastfeeding easier. They also protect the nipples from friction and irritation.
Choice C rationale
Providing plastic-lined breast pads may prevent leakage, but they do not address the issue of inverted nipples. Proper nipple preparation is essential for effective breastfeeding.
Choice D rationale
Applying breast cream regularly might keep the skin hydrated, but it does not help to correct the inversion of the nipples. Mechanical aids like breast shells are more effective.