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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Respiratory rate of 10/min is a critical adverse effect, indicating potential respiratory depression due to magnesium sulfate, a serious and life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
Urine output of 160 mL in 4 hours is lower than expected but not immediately life-threatening. It needs monitoring but is not as critical as respiratory rate.
Choice C rationale
Diaphoresis, or excessive sweating, can be a side effect of magnesium sulfate but is not life-threatening. It warrants attention but does not require immediate reporting.
Choice D rationale
Nausea is a common, less severe side effect of magnesium sulfate that does not indicate an urgent situation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Starting each feeding with the same breast can lead to engorgement and decreased milk supply in the other breast.
Choice B rationale
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months. Providing a formula supplement can interfere with milk supply and breastfeeding success.
Choice C rationale
Allowing the newborn to empty the first breast ensures they receive hindmilk, which is richer in fat and essential for growth.
Choice D rationale
Newborns do not need additional water as breast milk or formula provides all necessary hydration.