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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Nausea can be a side effect of magnesium sulfate, but it is not a specific indication of toxicity. Other symptoms are more directly indicative of magnesium sulfate overdose.
Choice B rationale
Facial flushing is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate but is not a sign of toxicity. It typically occurs at therapeutic levels and is not a reliable indicator of overdose.
Choice C rationale
Urine output of 40 mL/hr is within normal limits for an adult and does not indicate magnesium sulfate toxicity. However, significantly decreased urine output could be concerning.
Choice D rationale
Respiratory rate of 10/min is a critical sign of magnesium sulfate toxicity. Magnesium sulfate can cause respiratory depression, and a rate of 10 breaths per minute or less indicates that the patient may be experiencing toxic effects, necessitating immediate medical intervention.