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
Penicillin is the recommended prophylactic treatment for a client at 38 weeks of gestation with a positive group B streptococcus B-hemolytic screening. It is highly effective in preventing the transmission of group B strep from mother to baby during labor and delivery. Administering Penicillin reduces the risk of neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis caused by group B strep.
Choice B rationale
Cefazolin is an alternative antibiotic for clients allergic to penicillin. It is less preferred compared to penicillin due to its broader spectrum of activity and potential for resistance. Cefazolin can be used if the client has a non-severe penicillin allergy.
Choice C rationale
Erythromycin is not recommended for group B strep prophylaxis during labor due to its lower efficacy compared to penicillin and cefazolin. It is less effective in preventing neonatal group B strep infections and is used less frequently.
Choice D rationale
Vancomycin is used for clients with a severe penicillin allergy or for those with resistant strains of group B strep. It is a last-resort antibiotic due to its potent effect and potential side effects. It is only used when absolutely necessary.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ensuring the client has a full bladder before the procedure is incorrect. A full bladder can cause discomfort during the pelvic examination and may obscure the pelvic organs, making the examination more challenging for the provider.
Choice B rationale
Instructing the client to bear down when the speculum is inserted is correct. Bearing down helps relax the pelvic muscles, making it easier to insert the speculum and perform the examination with minimal discomfort.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the client to take rapid, shallow breaths during the procedure is incorrect. This can increase anxiety and tension in the pelvic muscles, making the examination more uncomfortable.
Choice D rationale
Applying povidone-iodine to the provider's fingers prior to bimanual examination is incorrect. The standard procedure involves using gloves and lubricant to prevent infection and ensure patient comfort, not povidone-iodine.