A nurse on the postpartum unit is caring for a client who delivered vaginally 3 hr ago. Which of the following manifestations is a possible indication of postpartum hemorrhage?
Apical pulse 66/min.
Temperature 38.3 C (101° F).
Blood pressure 156/80 mm Hg.
Respiratory rate 32/min.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
An apical pulse of 66/min is within the normal range and not indicative of postpartum hemorrhage, which would typically cause an elevated heart rate due to blood loss.
Choice B rationale
A temperature of 38.3°C (101°F) could indicate infection or inflammation but is not a direct sign of postpartum hemorrhage, which primarily involves significant blood loss.
Choice C rationale
Blood pressure of 156/80 mm Hg is elevated but not directly indicative of postpartum hemorrhage, which would typically result in a drop in blood pressure due to loss of blood volume.
Choice D rationale
A respiratory rate of 32/min is significantly elevated and can be a compensatory response to hypovolemia from postpartum hemorrhage. This response occurs as the body tries to increase oxygen delivery due to blood loss.
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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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Chemotherapy is not a standard treatment for a molar pregnancy unless malignancy is suspected or confirmed. It is usually monitored with regular HCG levels and follow-up.
Choice B rationale
Attending a support group is crucial for emotional support and ensuring that the client has access to resources and information about recovery and future pregnancy planning.
Choice C rationale
Home palliative services are not typically required after a molar pregnancy unless there are specific complications that necessitate such care. The focus is generally on monitoring HCG levels and follow-up.
Choice D rationale
An amniocentesis is not needed after a molar pregnancy. Follow-up includes HCG level monitoring to ensure all molar tissue is gone and to watch for malignancy, not amniocentesis.