A nurse is caring for a postpartum client, 2 days after birth. Which of the following expected findings does the nurse associate with the cardiovascular system changes in the postpartum period?
Temperature 99.0°F (37.3°C).
Respiratory rate of 18/min.
WBC 22,000/mm³.
Urinary retention.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A temperature of 99.0°F (37.3°C) is within the normal range and is not specifically associated with cardiovascular system changes in the postpartum period. It is a common finding and does not indicate any specific cardiovascular changes.
Choice B rationale
A respiratory rate of 18/min is within the normal range for adults and is not specifically associated with cardiovascular system changes in the postpartum period. It is a common finding and does not indicate any specific cardiovascular changes.
Choice C rationale
An elevated white blood cell (WBC) count of 22,000/mm³ is a common finding in the postpartum period due to the body’s response to the stress of childbirth. This leukocytosis is a normal physiological response and is associated with the cardiovascular system changes during this period.
Choice D rationale
Urinary retention is not specifically associated with cardiovascular system changes in the postpartum period. It can occur due to various reasons, including the effects of anesthesia or trauma during delivery, but it is not a direct result of cardiovascular changes.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The client is exhibiting expected assessment findings. Three days postpartum, it is normal for the fundus to be three fingerbreadths below the umbilicus, lochia rubra to be light, and the breasts to be full and warm to palpation without evidence of redness or pain. These findings indicate that the uterus is involuting properly, and the breasts are producing milk for breastfeeding.
Choice B rationale
The client is not exhibiting indications of mastitis. Mastitis is characterized by breast tenderness, redness, warmth, and pain, often accompanied by fever and flu-like symptoms. The absence of these symptoms suggests that the client does not have mastitis.
Choice C rationale
There is no indication that the client should be advised to remove her nursing bra. A well-fitting nursing bra can provide support and comfort during breastfeeding. The client should continue to wear a nursing bra as needed.
Choice D rationale
There is no indication that the client should be advised to stop breastfeeding. The assessment findings suggest that breastfeeding is going well, and the client should be encouraged to continue breastfeeding to provide optimal nutrition for the infant.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Using a bladder scanner to assess for urinary retention is a non-invasive and appropriate intervention. It helps determine the volume of urine in the bladder and can guide further management. This method avoids unnecessary catheterization and reduces the risk of infection.
Choice B rationale
Catheterizing to empty the bladder is a common intervention for urinary retention. However, it should be done with caution and only when necessary to avoid the risk of infection. In this scenario, it is not contraindicated but should be considered after other non-invasive methods have been tried.
Choice C rationale
Placing peppermint oil on a cotton ball and placing it in the urinary “hat” while the client is on the toilet is a non-invasive method that can help stimulate urination through the scent of peppermint. This method is safe and can be effective for some clients.
Choice D rationale
Assisting the client back to bed and telling her to try to void again in 2 hours is contraindicated because it delays the intervention for a distended bladder. A distended bladder can cause discomfort and potential complications, so timely intervention is necessary.