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
"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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A client whose labor lasted for 6 hours is not necessarily a priority unless other complications are present. Duration of labor alone does not indicate an urgent need for immediate attention postpartum.
Choice B rationale
A client who received magnesium sulfate during labor should be seen first due to the potential for serious side effects such as respiratory depression, hypotonia in the newborn, and maternal complications. Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures in clients with preeclampsia and requires close monitoring.
Choice C rationale
A client with a history of oligohydramnios needs monitoring, but this condition alone does not take precedence over the immediate postpartum risks associated with magnesium sulfate.
Choice D rationale
A client whose newborn is having difficulty latching-on needs support and assistance with breastfeeding. While important, this issue is not as urgent as monitoring the effects of magnesium sulfate in the client described in Choice B.