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
This statement is incorrect because after a cesarean birth, clients are usually started on clear liquids and then gradually progress to regular food as tolerated. Swallowing safety is related to anesthesia recovery, not cesarean birth recovery.
Choice B rationale
This statement is incorrect because the client does not need to stay flat on their back for 24 hours. Early ambulation is encouraged to prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis and promote recovery.
Choice C rationale
This statement is incorrect because the urinary catheter is typically removed within 24 hours after surgery to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and encourage normal bladder function.
Choice D rationale
This statement is correct because after a cesarean birth, the nurse will frequently assess the uterus for firmness and massage it as needed to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
"Decreased BP.”. This is correct because hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to dehydration, which in turn can cause hypotension (decreased blood pressure).
Choice B rationale
"WBC count 15,000/mm³ (5,000 to 15,000/mm³).”. This is incorrect because while WBC count can be elevated due to stress or infection, it is not a primary manifestation of hyperemesis gravidarum.
Choice C rationale
"Pruritus.”. This is incorrect because pruritus is not commonly associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. It is more likely related to other conditions like cholestasis of pregnancy.
Choice D rationale
"Hemoglobin 18 g/dL (11 to 16 g/dL).”. This is incorrect because an elevated hemoglobin level is not a direct manifestation of hyperemesis gravidarum, although dehydration can potentially concentrate blood components and slightly elevate hemoglobin.